The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) is shining a spotlight on the alarming rise of human trafficking during major events like the Super Bowl. While these large gatherings attract millions of spectators, they also create an environment where traffickers can exploit the surge in activity and anonymity to profit from vulnerable individuals.

What is Human Trafficking?

Human trafficking involves the recruitment, transportation, or harboring of individuals through force, fraud, or deception for exploitation and financial gain. Victims can be men, women, or children, with women and girls disproportionately affected. They may be subjected to forced labor, used as child soldiers, coerced into forced marriages, or subjected to organ trafficking, among other forms of abuse. According to the United Nations, millions of people worldwide are trapped in human trafficking or modern slavery, exploited across industries such as agriculture, construction, domestic work, and prostitution.

Human Trafficking Facts

• About 50 million people are victims of human trafficking globally, including 28 million in forced labor and 22 million in forced marriages.

• Approximately 12 million children are victims of human trafficking worldwide.

• Women and girls make up more than half of those affected by human trafficking.

• In 2024, over 113,000 human trafficking victims were identified.

• Human trafficking is the second-most profitable illegal industry in the United States.

• Trafficking for prostitution is the most prevalent form of trafficking in the U.S.
  (Source: www.state.gov TIP, the United Nations, UNICEF, and ILO)

Law Enforcement Operations and Recent Trends

Recent law enforcement operations underscore the growing threat of human trafficking during high-profile events, prompting targeted efforts and collaborations with local businesses, hotels, and prevention organizations.

For instance, during the 2023 Super Bowl in Arizona, trafficking sting operations led to multiple arrests and the rescue of several victims. Similarly, at San Diego Comic-Con 2024, California’s Human Trafficking Task Force arrested 14 people and rescued 10 victims, including a child. During Super Bowl week in 2024, 13 youngsters were rescued by authorities in Las Vegas.

“The Super Bowl and other major events offer traffickers a window of opportunity to exploit the surge in visitors, preying on the most vulnerable,” says ADRA International’s Vice President for Humanitarian Affairs, Imad Madanat. “Now, more than ever, we must rise to the challenge—seizing these moments to raise awareness, inspire action, and strengthen global efforts to end human trafficking. This pervasive crime impacts people from all walks of life and every corner of the world. Together, we can stand against this injustice and bring hope to those whose voices have been silenced.”

ADRA’s Ongoing Efforts

ADRA collaborates with trusted organizations and the Adventist Church in various countries to combat human trafficking. Their efforts focus on raising awareness about the warning signs, supporting survivors, and offering resources to help prevent individuals from falling into dangerous situations. Experts note that people in unstable circumstances—such as those estranged from family, minors living alone, or children from low-income households—are particularly vulnerable.

“At ADRA, safeguarding isn’t just a policy—it’s a commitment,” says ADRA’s Global Safeguarding Advisor, Beryl Hartman. “Every person we serve deserves to feel safe, valued, and protected. We work tirelessly to ensure that dignity, respect, and security are at the heart of everything we do.”

Strengthening Communities, Preventing Exploitation

ADRA’s initiatives, such as the Keep Girls Safe program in Thailand, help young women pursue sustainable careers and reduce their vulnerability to trafficking. Additionally, ADRA promotes year-round vigilance, encouraging communities to recognize that trafficking doesn’t stop after major events. For example, ADRA’s program in Brazil helps rehabilitate children rescued from gang-controlled areas, many of whom have experienced abuse and exploitation.

What You Can Do to Help

ADRA urges attendees of the Super Bowl or any major event to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity. Recognizing the warning signs of human trafficking can be the first step in saving a life. Indicators that someone may be a trafficking victim, particularly women and children, include:

• Avoiding eye contact or appearing fearful of authorities.

• Lacking identification or personal belongings.

• Poor physical or dental health.

• Tattoos or branding, often on the neck or lower back.

• Small children working in family-run businesses.

• Living in workplaces or areas with barred windows and security measures to keep people inside.

The original article was published on the ADRA International website.