Modern Slavery

50 million people around the world are currently living in slavery.

One person abused, one person trafficked, one person enslaved is one too many.

Hagar is committed to preventing modern slavery and helping survivors heal and rebuild their lives.

Right now, according to global estimates, 50 million people worldwide are trapped in modern slavery. 

Modern slavery is a global issue. No country or region of the world is immune. In fact, modern slavery and human trafficking occur in every country of the world, including your own. It is deeply embedded in our global supply chains and has infiltrated various industries including clothing production, mining, and farming.    

In general, modern slavery refers to situations where people are exploited and cannot escape due to threats, violence, coercion, deception, or abuse of authority.

What Is Modern Slavery?

Modern slavery often begins with an offer a person cannot refuse, like a good job or the chance to get married and create an independent life. But instead of what was promised, they find themselves exploited and enslaved.

Most victims (71%) are women and girls, according to estimates of modern slavery. Forms of modern slavery include trafficking in persons, debt bondage, commercial sexual exploitation, child labour, forced scamming, forced labour, and forced marriage (including child marriage).   

Trafficked Cambodian woman

Vulnerable communities are disproportionately affected by modern slavery. Impoverished families, internally displaced people, individuals living in high-conflict areas, and those affected by climate change are particularly vulnerable to slavery or slave-like situations. 

Inadequate support systems for survivors contribute to the endless cycle of human trafficking and abuse.     

Victims of modern slavery often suffer from deep psychological, emotional, and physical scars. But fewer than 1 in 10 people in modern slavery are rescued and receive support. Without effective intervention, survivors face a heightened risk of re-exploitation and remain vulnerable to modern slavery. This perpetuates the cycle of trauma and despair.               

Freedom from Slavery and Abuse

Hagar is an international organization on a mission to prevent slavery and help survivors rebuild their lives. 

We walk the whole journey of restoration with each survivor, empower communities to prevent exploitation, and strengthen systems to protect the vulnerable.    

At Hagar, we are committed to providing each survivor we meet with the care and resources they need to overcome trauma and forge healthy and free futures.

By offering comprehensive services including safe accommodation, healthcare, education, legal awareness, and trauma counseling, Hagar empowers survivors to overcome their past and embrace a future filled with hope and opportunity.

As we work with survivor leaders, families, and communities, we strive to break the chains of human rights abuses and modern slavery in its many forms. We not only provide vital support to survivors but also work tirelessly to address the root causes of human trafficking through prevention efforts and systems change.

By advocating for awareness, implementing preventive measures, and fostering sustainable change, Hagar is determined to create a world where individuals are free from the clutches of slavery and can live their lives with dignity, resilience, and independence.