Modern slavery and human trafficking

Spot the Signs

Driven by poverty, conflict, persecution – and the global demand for cheap goods, labour and sex – modern slavery and human trafficking are thriving worldwide. Yes, even in your own community.

Victims often can’t ask for help. They rely on others – on you – to notice the signs and speak out.

Signs to watch out for

  • Someone else speaks for them or pays for their travel
  • They don’t know their own address
  • Frightened, malnourished, dishevelled or have untreated injuries
  • No ID or official documents
  • Not free to come and go as they please
  • Controlled by someone else
  • Same clothes every day, unsuitable for work or unsafe
  • Few or no personal belongings
  • Dropped off or picked up at unusual times
  • Avoids interaction or seems unusually reserved

If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

See it. Say it. Stop it.

Discover more

Image of Palais des Nations
Children and young people
Justice
Modern slavery and human trafficking

The Salvation Army and World Evangelical Alliance call for action on child labour

The Salvation Army has released a joint statement with the World Evangelical Alliance to coincide with the United Nations 60th Session of the Human Rights Council to support the urgent call to end the worst forms of child labour. 

Embolden Hope
Modern slavery and human trafficking

Embolden Hope

The Salvation Army International Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Response Impact Report 2024

Modern slavery and human trafficking
Strategy and impact

160 Years: Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery Response

Responding to modern slavery and human trafficking is woven into The Salvation Army’s DNA.

Major Velena Iga (centre) with her award, alongside Melania Trump and Marco Rubio
Modern slavery and human trafficking
Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands
Women

International Woman of Courage: Major Velena Iga

Papua New Guinea officer, Major Velena Iga, was one of eight women to receive the International Women of Courage Award in April

A man washes dishes, his face hidden by an open cupboard door

Diego’s story

When Diego, a 40-year-old male from Latin America, arrived at the Filemon Safe House, his face was weary, his eyes carrying the weight of a painful story all too familiar to the team at Filemon – another tale of exploitation and broken promises.

Two women sitting at a sewing machine, one with her face blurred

Saanvi and Ishra’s story

The Salvation Army in Bangladesh operates a support programme near Jashore’s brothels to help vulnerable and exploited women and children who are exiting cycles of abuse.