When it comes to natural disasters, human trafficking may not necessarily be the first thing that enters your mind. In the chaotic aftermath of a hurricane, tsunami, earthquake, tornado, or other calamity, our thoughts most likely turn to the victims and how we can help restore normalcy to their lives in whatever ways possible. However, natural disasters and human trafficking sadly go hand-in-hand. The common denominator is the presence of vulnerability, and such vulnerabilities seem to further whet the appetites of human traffickers.  After Mother Nature bears her wrath, many individuals become displaced, homeless, searching for shelter and desperate for the fulfillment of basic needs. Cue entry: the human trafficking forces.  We know by now that homelessness is one of the top risk factors reported by survivors via the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Many of those survivors were recruited by traffickers near shelters or centers assisting those in need.

Even after war and significant economic transition, traffickers remain in a greater position to exploit the subsequent victims. The shock created from such chaos only serve to give the traffickers a larger platform from which to operate, preying on the already vulnerable and increasing their own profits.

According to polarisproject.org, one of the largest labor trafficking cases in the history of the United States was a result of human trafficking during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.  In recent months, we have watched – often helplessly – the effects of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, and in addition to providing a much-needed response in terms of aid, we must also look to providing more access to safe places for potential victims. 

Fighting human trafficking post-natural disaster, war or economic transition should be a part of the long-term recovery plan.  Children are especially vulnerable during this time, such as during the Nepal earthquakes, as the breadwinners of the family may be killed or injured. As children become separated from their families, they become easy targets for trafficking purposes.

We need to take a stand and create more awareness of this situation, not only abroad but in the United States, remaining prepared before a disaster strikes.