Why Children Are an Overlooked Ally in the Fight Against Human Trafficking

In conjunction with #MyFreedomDay, organized by the CNN Freedom Project, I wrote an essay for CNN. An excerpt and link to the full article are below:

Excerpt:

Human trafficking is a grave violation of basic human dignity. In more than 20 years of research and advocacy on the issue, I have yet to meet an individual who is not appalled when they first learn about human trafficking and the harms it inflicts. Yet it continues to thrive, and nearly every sector of society is implicated.

Because of human trafficking's reach and complexity, ending this crime will require a comprehensive, integrated response in which all sectors of society play a role. Law enforcement, social services, health care, education, transportation, media, and the private sector are all well-positioned to make a difference. However, one critical constituency is often overlooked: Children.

Children can, and in many cases already do, play a critical role in the fight against human trafficking.

Continue reading at CNN.