Breaking the silence: Community action as a key to ending human trafficking

In many parts of the world, human trafficking remains a sensitive and often overlooked issue. Discussions around it are uncomfortable, clouded by stigma, and frequently dismissed as a problem that exists elsewhere. In reality, the issue is far more complex and alarmingly closer to home than many might assume.

Often described as a modern form of slavery, human trafficking is among the world’s fastest-growing and least-reported crimes. According to the International Labour Organization, an estimated 50 million people were living in modern slavery in 2021—over 27 million of whom were victims of forced labor, while millions more were trafficked for sexual exploitation.

In many communities—particularly among women and vulnerable groups—victims bear a double burden: first at the hands of traffickers, and second from societal silence, stigma, or wrongful suspicion.

Social stigma continues to be a significant barrier. In conservative societies, the fear of shame, cultural taboos, and the mistaken belief that the victim must have done something wrong often prevent individuals from speaking out or seeking help.

International reports indicate that nearly 40% of human trafficking cases are identified by community members, not law enforcement. This means that neighbors, teachers, employers, and even casual acquaintances can be a victim’s first line of rescue. But for action to be taken, people must have enough awareness to interpret what they see—and the confidence to report it in a safe and responsible way.

In the Gulf region, the United Arab Emirates was the first country to enact a comprehensive federal law to combat human trafficking. This legal framework laid the foundation for a national strategy built on four pillars: prevention, prosecution, protection, and international cooperation—a framework that continues to shape the UAE’s approach.

Yet on the ground, the biggest challenges are not always legal—they’re societal. The fight against human trafficking must move beyond courtrooms and into the heart of communities.

This year’s World Day Against Trafficking in Persons carries the theme: “Human Trafficking is an Organized Crime—Stop the Exploitation.” It highlights how criminal networks exploit social vulnerabilities, migration pathways, and legal loopholes for profit. While public policy and law enforcement play a vital role, experts emphasize that community awareness remains one of the most effective tools for identifying and preventing trafficking.

In this context, local institutions have begun rethinking how support is offered and how awareness can be raised on a wider scale.

Among these is the Family Care Authority in Abu Dhabi, which has recently expanded its mandate to include anti-trafficking efforts, shelter services, and victim rehabilitation. Rather than focusing solely on rescue and enforcement, the Authority adopts a human-centered approach—emphasizing care, education, and cultural sensitivity.

Speaking to Gulf News, Maryam Al Zaabi, Project Manager for Shelter and Care Services at the Family Care Authority, stated:

“Human trafficking is a global issue, but solutions must come from local realities. In the UAE, we are a culturally diverse society. This means our awareness campaigns must be multilingual, our services must be confidential, and our teams must be trained to provide support that respects individual privacy. Most importantly, awareness is our strongest tool—when communities recognize the signs and speak out, we break the silence and begin dismantling the system of exploitation.”

Al Zaabi added: “Trafficking doesn’t always look obvious. It may take hidden forms—such as someone working under coercion, showing signs of fear, or avoiding open communication. These signs can be masked by manipulation, threats, or false promises. That’s why empowering the public with knowledge is essential. When people know what to look for, they become part of a community protection system.”

As the world marks the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the growing efforts in the UAE remind us that progress doesn’t only begin in courtrooms—it begins when a neighbor picks up the phone, when a teacher listens closely, or when a parent finds the courage to ask difficult questions.

The Family Care Authority affirms its commitment to awareness, education, and stigma reduction. It is also working to enhance early reporting mechanisms through channels such as the toll-free helpline 800-SAVE (800-7283).

All calls are confidential, and support services include legal aid, temporary shelter, psychological care, and—when needed—rehabilitation and reintegration programs. The hotline is available 24/7. The Authority also collaborates with government entities and strategic partners to ensure a holistic and coordinated response to every case.