Five Things Most People Don’t Know About Modern Slavery

BY: International Justice Mission

There are more than 50 million people trapped in modern slavery today, and one in four is a child.

While the scale of the problem is staggering, there is reason for hope. In 20 countries International Justice Mission (IJM) is working with governments, communities and survivors to create lasting freedom and protection from violence for people in poverty.

Here are five realities about the fight against modern slavery that often surprise people:

1. Slavery Still Exists

For many people, slavery sounds like a problem from the past.

The reality is that modern slavery continues today in the form of forced labour, human trafficking, sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse. Millions of children, women and men are trapped in situations they cannot leave.

Behind every statistic is a person with hopes, dreams and a future worth protecting. Modern slavery is one of the greatest human rights challenges of our time – and one that demands action.

2. Slavery Thrives Where Justice Systems Are Broken

Modern slavery doesn’t exist simply because people are vulnerable. It exists because perpetrators often believe they can act without consequences.

That’s why IJM focuses on more than responding to individual cases. Alongside local authorities, police, prosecutors, judges and social workers, IJM works to strengthen justice systems so that vulnerable people can be protected before violence happens.

When justice systems function effectively, communities become safer and traffickers find it harder to operate. The goal isn’t only rescue – it’s lasting protection for entire communities.

3. Traffickers Expect to Get Away With It

Trafficking and exploitation are often driven by a simple calculation: profit with little risk.

For too long, many perpetrators have operated believing they will never be investigated, arrested or prosecuted. One of the most effective ways to disrupt exploitation is to increase accountability.

By supporting investigations, prosecutions and stronger justice responses, IJM helps local authorities hold perpetrators accountable and sends a clear message that violence and exploitation will not be tolerated. Last year alone, this work contributed to more than 1,400 convictions of traffickers and abusers.

4. Rescue Is Only the Beginning

Freedom is not a single moment, it’s a journey.

After escaping violence or exploitation, survivors often need support to recover physically, emotionally and economically. Many require counselling, education, healthcare, family support or access to livelihoods.

That’s why survivor restoration is a critical part of IJM’s work. Long-term aftercare helps survivors move beyond survival and begin to thrive. Every year, thousands of survivors receive care and support designed to help them heal and rebuild their lives.

5. The Problem Is Huge – but It Is Solvable.

When confronted with the scale of violence in our world, it’s easy to wonder whether meaningful change is possible. The encouraging answer is: yes, it is.

Over nearly three decades, IJM and its partners have seen measurable evidence that violence can be reduced when local justice systems become stronger. In some places where IJM has worked, violence has decreased by as much as 86%.

That means fewer children trapped in exploitation. Fewer families living in fear. More communities experiencing safety and freedom.

There Is Hope

The fight against slavery and violence is challenging, but it is not hopeless.

Together, we can protect vulnerable people, strengthen justice systems and help build a world where freedom is not the exception, but the expectation. Join the fight – donate today: CLICK HERE

Because every person deserves safety.

Because every person deserves dignity.

Will you be part of it?

Learn more and join us at ijm.org.au: CLICK HERE

Images: Some images may be represented by actors to protect identities. All stories and images are used with informed consent and safeguarding practices.