South Africa: A Nation of Victories, But Can We Defeat Human Trafficking?

Every year on July 30th, the world comes together to raise awareness about human trafficking. This heinous crime steals lives and futures, and here at TEARS Foundation, we stand firmly against it. Similarly, each year, the U.S. Department of State releases a Trafficking in Persons Report that ranks countries based on their efforts to combat human trafficking. This ranking system has four tiers, with Tier 1 being the best and Tier 4 the worst. In the 2024 report, South Africa is ranked as a Tier 2 Watchlist country. But what exactly does that mean?

Understanding Tier Rankings

Think of it like a school report card. Tier 2 means South Africa is taking some steps to combat trafficking, but there’s still significant room for improvement. The report looks at factors like the government’s efforts to prosecute traffickers, protect victims, and prevent trafficking from happening in the first place.

Human Trafficking in South Africa

Human trafficking is a horrific crime that exploits people for forced labour, sexual exploitation, or other forms of servitude. In South Africa, this can take many forms:

• Child trafficking: This year’s World Day Against Human Trafficking focuses on child trafficking, a particularly disturbing issue. Children can be trafficked into forced labour in agriculture, mines, or even domestic servitude. In South Africa, a child is taken every 5 hours.
• Debt bondage: This occurs when someone is forced to work to pay off a debt, often under threat of violence. This can be a cycle that is nearly impossible to escape.
• Forced marriage: Individuals, often young girls, are coerced into marriages against their will, where they are subjected to domestic servitude and sexual exploitation.
• Organ trafficking: Victims are trafficked for the purpose of harvesting their organs, which are then sold on the black market.

Statistics on Human Trafficking in South Africa

Human trafficking in South Africa is a significant concern, with the country being a source, transit, and destination point for trafficked individuals. Some key statistics include:

• Approximately 155,000 people are living in modern slavery in South Africa.
• The majority of trafficking victims are women and children.
• Over 70% of trafficking victims in South Africa are trafficked for sexual exploitation.

How Can We Fight Back?

While the Tier 2 ranking acknowledges South Africa’s efforts, it’s clear there is more work to be done. Here are some ways you can help:

• Stay vigilant: The more we understand about human trafficking, the better equipped we are to fight it. Be aware of red flags to look out for.
  • Here are a few:
    • Victims are accompanied by a person who speaks on their behalf.
    • Victims may not even know their address.
    • Victims often have little to no possessions.
    • Victims may work and live at the same place.
• Support organisations like the TEARS Foundation: TEARS provides critical services to victims of human trafficking and other forms of abuse.
• By working together, we can create a future where South Africa truly excels in every category, including the fight against human trafficking.

A Nation of Victories, But Not Yet Over Human Trafficking

South Africa has a lot to celebrate, but the fight against human trafficking is an ongoing battle. Let’s turn our winning spirit towards this crucial cause and ensure a brighter future for all.

Report suspected trafficking

If you see something that seems suspicious, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline: 0800 222 777.

Make a Difference

You can donate to TEARS Foundation and help make a difference to some of the people who are affected by the abuse and exploitation that human trafficking leads to. Your support can change lives and bring hope to those in need.