How To Stop Sex Trafficking

Sex trafficking is a pressing, yet often ignored issue that can be difficult to discuss. However, it must be brought up. It is a multi-billion-dollar industry worldwide, according to the Huffington Post. UNICEF reports that sex trafficking affects at least 2 million girls under the age of 18 worldwide. It happens under the radar--children are kept as slaves and forced into prostitution. They are sold off, treated as objects rather than human beings. They have no control over their situation, so it is the responsibility of us, as a society, to help stop this physically and psychologically destructive industry.

Because of the ignorance of the extent of this problem, there is a lack of law enforcement and prosecution concerning it. This also causes sex trafficking charges to be filed on only the “sex act” aspect, rather than the whole crime. These cases are often unjust. While safe harbor laws, which criminalize adults who purchase sex with a minor, have been passed in 34 states, the inconsistency in them results in girls being treated as criminals rather than as victims of abuse. …show more content…
The Department of State’s TIP Office and the Department of Homeland Security have developed an online human trafficking awareness program, which is available on the U.S. Department of State website. I want to ensure people know that if they notice signs of sex trafficking, they must call 911 or the 24-hour National Human Trafficking Resource Center. Also, as there is a substantial lack of laws addressing this issue, I urge people to contact their local, state, and federal government representatives to find out what steps they are taking to address and combat the crime. It is essential that we spread awareness about sex trafficking, as the effects of the abuse stay with the victims their entire