Innocence for sale: The human trafficing problem

MIAMI: In 1865, the thirteenth Amendement was passed in which it states that slavery and involentary servitude were banned. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the UN in 1948, also states in Article 4 that no one is to be forced to slavery and also banning the slave trade. But now around the world, children and people are being sold and bought in the new era of modern day slave trade. People are being lured into trafficing for many reasons which includes in some cases physical force, false promises of a job oppotunity, and marriges in foreign countries. According to the US State Department, approximatly 600,000 to 800,000 people are trafficked across international borders every year. Millions are in other countries. Trafficing victims suffer physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, threats against themselfs and family, Passport theft, health problems, and even death. But it not only effects victims it also underminds the health, safety, and security of all nation where trafficing is taking place. Child sex tourism is another common problem in which foriegners take part in sexual acts with children whom could be as young as 8 or 9 years old. Predators come from all over the world and most cases hold prominate positions. Previous cases include an retired US Army general, a dentist, teachers, and a University Professor. Children in these conditions suffer almost the same as trafficing victims but they also suffer drug addiction, diseases like HIV/AIDS, unwanted pregnancy, and maluntrition. The United States are taking some steps into stopping human trafficing. For example, they passed several bills one of which helps convict trafficers for as much as 30 years in prison. The Department of Health now cerrtifiying victims so they may qualify for the same assistance as refuges. The US is helping and contributing funding for other countries to prevent human trafficing which includes special housing and work training centers for victims, training Custom official to reconizing trafficing victims and so many other things. Now more than ever, it;s important that all of us learn more about this devastating international crime of human trafficing because it's quickly becoming the crime buisness of the future.