When “there is a job” is a trap: how communities are informed about the risks of human trafficking

“Accommodation is provided, and we will help arrange the documents.” It is precisely with such messages that involvement in situations related to human trafficking or forced exploitation often begins.

From the outside, this looks like an opportunity to resolve life difficulties — to find work, receive income, or get support. This is exactly what builds trust and reduces the sense of risk. But later, the conditions may change: control, dependency, and situations from which a person finds it difficult to get out independently begin to emerge.

According to the NGO “Dzherelo Nadii Ukrainy” — a member of the Counter–Trafficking NGO Coalition:

• more than 160 minors have been involved in crimes since the beginning of the full-scale invasion;
• 55% of survivors are unemployed adults;
• 22% are minors;
• 7% are people who had problems with the law.

This indicates that the risk is not limited by age or social status — the determining factors are circumstances and the level of awareness. That is why it is important not only to inform, but also to build practical skills that help recognize danger and act in real-life situations.

In response to these challenges, the NGO “Dzherelo Nadii Ukrainy” conducted the training “Capable: specific features of implementing a programme to strengthen the capacity of community residents in countering / reducing protection risks”.