ILO reports: Sexual exploitation propels 37% surge in forced labor profits

 

Sex traffickers are making substantial profits by exploiting victims through forced labor worldwide, according to recent estimates from the ILO. The UN agency found that global profits from forced labor have surged to $236 billion, with sexual exploitation being the most lucrative form despite involving fewer victims. Sex trafficking generates 73% of total illegal profits from all forced labor, averaging around $21,000 annually per victim. This marks a 37% increase in profits since 2014.

Experts attribute the rising profits to more people subjected to forced labor and higher earnings per victim. With over 27 million worldwide trapped in modern slavery, traffickers and unethical employers make nearly $10,000 on average per victim. Forced labor in industries and services generates $35 billion and $21 billion respectively for exploiters. Vulnerable people, lax laws, and profitable exploitation fuel this growth.

Regionally, Europe/Central Asia leads in forced labor profits, followed by Asia/Pacific then the Americas. This highlights differing vulnerabilities and exploitation faced across regions. Economic instability, corruption, and weak laws contribute to prevalence in some areas. Moreover, global supply chains enable the spread of exploitation internationally.

ILO Director Gilbert Houngbo emphasized the urgent need for coordinated action. The international community must work together to eradicate forced labor, protect workers’ rights, and hold perpetrators accountable. Prioritizing vulnerable groups and ethical labor practices can help eliminate exploitation and modern slavery. Strengthening laws, enforcing them, empowering communities, and due diligence in supply chains are key steps stakeholders must take through united effort and commitment to human rights.