Human trafficking is a complex phenomenon and may be seen from different perspectives, such as human rights, migration, security and law-enforcement, social and labor, as well as economic. From the economic perspective, human trafficking is governed by the laws of supply and demand. Due to the low costs and huge profits, it has become one of the most profitable illicit industries worldwide generating tremendous profits of over an estimated US$ 32 billion per year.

Human trafficking deeply affects economic relations. As an illegitimate form of business, it negatively impacts the functioning of the legitimate business sector and puts the development of sound economic systems into danger. It is a ground where corruptive practices and money laundering proliferate.

The business community is a critical partner in helping eliminate human trafficking. In fact, there is a lot at stake for legitimate business if human trafficking continues to flourish. Most anti-trafficking initiatives have been undertaken by governments and nongovernmental organizations, but very few programs have engaged the business sector and harnessed their global reach and connections so far.

Whilst striding to put an end to human trafficking altogether, the EHTN campaign emphasizes the role of the business community and puts business companies at the forefront of the anti-trafficking fight. The campaign integrates the business sector into the solution of ending this illicit trade. With the global reach and connections enjoyed by most business corporations and enterprises today, the assistance they can provide is vast. Moreover, if a business takes a stance against human trafficking, and utilizes its available resources and alliances whilst also spreading awareness to its employees, partners and supporters, it creates a multiplier effect which promotes further cooperation and increases overall anti-trafficking efforts, since the message is distributed widely.

In signing on to the Athens Ethical Principles, businesses commit to dissociating themselves from this illicit trade and to contribute substantially to anti-trafficking efforts by implementing the seven Principles. An anti-trafficking policy leads to significant gains for businesses, such as ensuring the irreproachable conduct of its personnel at all levels and the safe operation of the company, building trust and good working relationships with local communities, and guaranteeing the highest distinction of its corporate image. Cashing in on the multiplier effect increases the reach and effectiveness of anti-trafficking measures by harnessing the business community’s global connections.