Thus far, multiple humanitarian workers allege that while trafficking in Ukraine existed pre-Russia invasion, it increased afterward.
Humanitarian workers likewise warn that what people publicly know of human trafficking in Ukraine barely scratches the surface of all that’s really occurring.
Women and children fleeing Ukraine to surrounding nations are not the only ones vulnerable to trafficking, however. In Ukraine, many Russian troops are also subjecting women and children to various forms of sexual servitude.
Meet Vlad, a long-time advocate and caretaker for survivors of sexual exploitation, abuse, and neglect. He has continued to support 181 high-risk individuals in his community in Kyiv. We are proud to work with him to support those at-risk in Ukraine. https://t.co/IDnltKiRsS pic.twitter.com/1BrSBeGKiB
— Operation Underground Railroad (@OURrescue) April 13, 2022
According to the Women’s Rights Ukraine Crisis Response, they’ve faced more reports of human trafficking and sexual assault since the war in Ukraine commenced. Furthermore, this organization warns that it’s impossible for each and every victim to make reports.
Many Ukrainians vulnerable to trafficking face serious hardships, with accessing basic living necessities posing steep challenges.
The sad reality here is that many of the people offering Ukrainian women and children shelter and other necessities for survival expect sexual servitude in return.
Raising awareness about human trafficking
If human trafficking got half the attention of various other social issues, a lot could occur to crack down on this evil.
