Human trafficking has sharply increased globally, reaching 25% above pre-pandemic levels in 2022, according to a UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) report. Conflicts, climate-induced disasters, and organized crime were cited as key drivers of this rise.
The report highlights that:
- 69,627 victims were recorded in 2022, with sub-Saharan Africa accounting for 26%.
- Children made up 38% of victims, while women comprised 39%.
- Women and girls were predominantly trafficked for sexual exploitation (60%), whereas men and boys were forced into labor or other activities, including criminality and begging.
- Migration influxes and unaccompanied minors contributed to increased trafficking in regions like Europe and North America.
The sharpest increases were observed in sub-Saharan Africa, North America, and parts of Europe. The UN attributes this surge not only to better detection but also to an actual rise in trafficking activity.
The report calls for urgent international collaboration to tackle organized crime and provide support for trafficking victims.
