Thinking creatively in the fight against global human trafficking
Mapping the complex patterns of financial transactions reveals the footprint of organised crime, helping disrupt networks and restrict the flow of funds to traffickers.
We were approached in 2015 by an NGO who had drawn up a detailed flowchart of the complicated transactions taking place within an industry where human trafficking is rife. They demonstrated that existing Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Corruption frameworks were not being used effectively. Tracking the financial footprints could not only disrupt networks but could also provide important corroborating evidence in criminal cases that usually have to rely extensively on victim testimony.
This innovative programme represents a step-change in the way we confront human trafficking. To date, it has identified more than 12,000 trafficking suspects. New flowcharts mapping similar processes in over 20 different industries have been developed and shared with a wide range of stakeholders in banking, finance and the media, raising awareness both regionally and globally. Some 25 NGOs, 23 media organisations and numerous legal, financial and other businesses have joined to help fight against human trafficking.
