Human Trafficking 2017

Human trafficking of persons is a modern form of slavery and a public health concern that affects individuals, families, and communities across generations (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office on Trafficking in Persons, 2016). Trafficking of humans exists around the world and has been reported in every state in the United States, including Pennsylvania. Although official estimates vary, it is estimated that the number of trafficked persons nationally reaches into the hundreds of thousands (Polaris, 2017). Utilizing force, fraud, and coercion, traffickers target vulnerable or disenfranchised immigrants and citizens.