January 2025 marks Human Trafficking Prevention Month. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, this year's theme highlights a comprehensive approach to combat trafficking. It emphasizes understanding the links between trafficking and other forms of violence, including labor exploitation, online abuse, and interpersonal violence. By addressing key factors like economic opportunity, the need for social connection, technology, and market forces, we can better identify and disrupt trafficking recruitment strategies, while also reducing vulnerabilities. The month encourages collective efforts to enhance prevention at all levels—individual, relational, community, and societal. Tackling root causes, improving relationships, and fostering cross-sector collaboration will help prevent exploitation before it starts.
For more ways to support this cause, visit the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services website at https://www.acf.hhs.gov/otip/human-trafficking-prevention-month
