human trafficking

Mya Soe, 58, holds a photograph of his daughter Kyi Pyar Soe on the outskirts of Yangon, Myanmar, last year. He says he was told that his daughter was trafficked to China.

China Back On State Department List Of Worst Human Trafficking Offenders

3:04pm June 27, 2017

by Merrit Kennedy

In its latest annual report on the global state of human trafficking, the State Department has issued highly public criticism of China — a move that could increase tensions between China and the U.S.

A new report highlights victims of human trafficking in the food industry, from farm workers to restaurant bus staff, cooks and wait staff. Some victims are exploited for both sex and labor.

In U.S. Restaurants, Bars And Food Trucks, 'Modern Slavery' Persists

7:37pm March 29, 2017

by Maria Godoy

A new report highlights victims of human trafficking in the food industry, from farm workers to restaurant cooks and wait staff. Some victims are exploited for both sex and labor.

Halima Aden wore a navy blue, embroidered burkini -- a full-body bathing suit -- during the swimsuit competition.

7 Women Trailblazers Who Took A Stand In 2016

5:54am January 01, 2017

by Malaka Gharib

Maybe they didn't make headlines. But they inspired others to break stereotypes and take a stand.

Ronny Marty, who's from the Dominican Republic, came to the U.S. with the promise of a job. He ended up living in a tiny apartment with three men, with most of his earnings going back to his employer.

Call For Action From A Survivor Of Trafficking (Yes, It Happens To Men)

4:08pm October 18, 2016

by Eleanor Klibanoff

Ronny Marty talks about his experience — and the report he helped write as a member of the U.S. Advisory Council on Human Trafficking.

Syeda Fatima, a human rights activist from Pakistan, shows a photo of a laborer she helped rescue. He asked that his name not be given to protect his identity.

Anti-Trafficking Activists Share Phone Pix Of Victims They Have Rescued

4:23pm July 12, 2016

by Malaka Gharib

Says one activist: "They tell us, 'Because of you, we are breathing free air.' "

A police officer inspects a fishing boat in Thailand.

Controversy Follows Thailand's New Ranking In Human Trafficking Report

7:29pm June 30, 2016

by Malaka Gharib

The country, widely criticized for trafficking in its seafood industry, has made improvements, says the State Department report. But critics don't agree.

Alan Kurdi's body lies on the shores of Bodrum, southern Turkey, in September 2015 after a boat carrying 23 migrants sank while reaching the Greek island of Kos.

World News

2 Men Linked To Drowning Death Of Syrian Toddler Are Convicted Of Trafficking

5:57pm March 04, 2016

by Merrit Kennedy

The Syrian nationals were both sentenced to four years in prison for human trafficking, but they were found not guilty of causing the deaths of 3-year-old Alan Kurdi and four others last fall.

A child gold miner in Watsa, northeastern Congo. 2004

Today's Slaves Often Work For Enterprises That Destroy The Environment

3:22pm January 20, 2016

Kevin Bales' book, Blood and Earth, explains why slavery in the world's lawless zones is essential to operate mines that pose a grave threat to the environment.

Queue Listen Now

#NPRreads: Two Stories About Mental Health And A Profile Of Pitcher Bronson Arroyo

5:06pm October 23, 2015

Also this week: an interview with Eric Schmidt, the chairman of Alphabet and formerly the chairman and CEO of Google.

Thai and Burmese fishing boat workers sit inside a cell at the compound of a fishing company in Benjina, Indonesia on Nov. 22, 2014. The imprisoned men were considered slaves who might run away.

Beyond Brothels: Farms And Fisheries Are Frontier Of Human Trafficking

2:41pm July 30, 2015

by Tracie McMillan

The State Department's annual human trafficking report this year gives special attention to slavery in agriculture and fishing. Human rights advocates say there's much work to be done to fight it.