Human trafficking and exploitation

Human trafficking is a serious form of crime in which people are exploited. Denk sexual exploitation, forced labor, criminal exploitation, or modern slavery. It does not only occur in large cities, but can also take place in smaller municipalities such as Tytsjerksteradiel—often unseen by the outside world.

What is human trafficking?

Human trafficking is forcing someone to work, often under poor conditions. Examples include: 

  • Someone who works in prostitution and has to hand over the proceeds.
  • People who have to work against their will in agriculture, hospitality or cleaning, for example.
  • Young people under pressure to commit crimes or transport drugs. 

How do you recognize signs?

Human trafficking often takes place behind closed doors. Possible signs are: 

  • Someone does not seem to have their own passport or money.
  • The person is anxious, speaks little or is accompanied by someone who always speaks for them.
  • Long working hours under poor conditions, without clear agreements.
  • No access to medical care or education. 

What does the congregation do?

  • We train professionals to recognize signs of human trafficking.
  • We work with police, healthcare organizations and national agencies to locate and protect victims.
  • We provide safe shelter and counseling for victims. 

What can you do?

Together against human trafficking

It is important that we all stay alert. Human trafficking can also take place in our villages - often in places where you don't expect it. By taking signs seriously, we can help victims and deal with perpetrators.