IOM Launches Global Campaign to Support Survivors of Human Trafficking.

The United Nations’ International Organization for Migration (IOM) has launched “Anyone a Victim”, a global campaign that calls for stronger action to prevent human trafficking and expand support for survivors. The initiative seeks to mobilize public engagement, raise critical funds for protection programmes, and highlight that trafficking remains a widespread human rights violation worldwide.

“Human trafficking strips people of their rights, choices, and futures”, said Amy Pope, IOM Director General. “Its impact does not end when the exploitation stops. It can shape someone’s life for years. Every survivor should have access to safety, justice, and long-term support, and communities need the tools to prevent exploitation before it occurs. This campaign is a reminder that protecting people is not optional. It is a shared responsibility and a reflection of the societies we want to build”.

An estimated 50 million people are living in situations of forced labour, trafficking, or forced marriage, and many are pushed into danger by conflict, disasters, and economic instability. These pressures limit safe options for movement, increase people’s reliance on unsafe pathways, and expose those already facing inequality to even greater risks. Trafficking thrives where protection systems are weak and where people lack the means to secure safety, dignity, and stable livelihoods.

[[It was disclosed by the Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking on 08th April 2025, while unveiling comprehensive findings and recommendations from the Global Commission which address the global challenges of modern slavery and human trafficking.

Participants addressed the rise in modern slavery and human trafficking caused by the forced displacement of people due to conflict, organized crime and climate change, and in corporate supply chains. They also offered insights into current trends, effective interventions, and policy frameworks.

According to the report, there are still an estimated 50 million men, women and children trapped in slavery around the world. The stark reality of this level of individual suffering raises the questions: why is this still happening? What has gone wrong and what does the global community need to do to ensure this injustice finally ends?

Grappling with these questions, the report examines the causes of vulnerability to modern slavery and human trafficking and sets out clear recommendations for urgent action.

The global campaign “Anyone a Victim” brings survivor experiences to the forefront and challenges misconceptions about who is at risk. It highlights often overlooked stories and shows that trafficking affects people of all ages and backgrounds, encouraging public support for programmes that offer safety, assistance, and recovery]].

Through this effort, IOM aims to build a broader movement that strengthens prevention and ensures that survivors are heard and supported. The campaign reflects the growing need for rights-based and community-centred approaches across countries of origin, transit, and destination.

At the same time, many survivors face stigma or fear reporting their experiences, while others struggle to access the services that can help them recover and regain control of their lives. By sharing lived experiences publicly, the campaign seeks to build understanding, counter harmful assumptions, and encourage collective action against exploitation.

The campaign features the voices of several IOM Goodwill Ambassadors, including Sir Mo Farah, a survivor of human trafficking and IOM Global Goodwill Ambassador, who joins fellow Global Goodwill Ambassador America Ferrera and IOM National Goodwill Ambassador Kofi Kinaata in raising awareness. This year, IOM also inducted Pritika Swarup as a Global Advocate, drawing on her public outreach experience to work alongside IOM’s advocates in engaging audiences and driving action.

Sir Mo Farah while condemning such barbarian acts, reiterated, “I survived trafficking because someone eventually saw me, believed me, and helped me find safety. No child or adult should feel invisible or unprotected. Trafficking is not about a single moment. It leaves lasting marks on people’s lives, but those marks do not need to define them. When communities listen to survivors and invest in their recovery, healing becomes possible. My hope is that this campaign inspires people everywhere to stand with those who have been silenced for too long”.

Through the campaign, IOM reaffirms its commitment to supporting survivors, strengthening community protection, and promoting safe pathways that reduce the risks of exploitation in all its forms. The Organization works with governments, civil society partners, and affected communities to develop solutions that uphold rights, expand access to essential services, and help people rebuild with dignity and stability.

Team Maverick