Human trafficking and the issue of slavery in supply chains

Abstract

Human trafficking and the illegal movement of people is now one of the most profitable industries for organized crime. Globally, forced labour contributes an annual US$150 billion in revenue through a shadow economy that victimizes over 20.9 million people. While the International Organization for Migration (IOM) points to many push factors fuelling the crisis such as economic collapse and natural disaster, the threat of armed conflict remains a principle driver. This chapter explores the nexus between human trafficking, refugees and the private sector within a context of human insecurity in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It argues that firms that fail to understand the non-traditional business threats associated with trafficking are in serious risk of economic and legal sanction.