Safe and sustainable employment is one of the most effective ways to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable individuals and the re-exploitation of survivors of human trafficking and other forms of slavery. As employers, companies can offer quality training and stable incomes to survivors of human trafficking to enable them to better build the skills and resources they need to achieve financial security and long-term safety.    

To inform companies on how to support survivors in their long-term recovery, BSR and the Global Business Coalition Against Human Trafficking (GBCAT) have developed a new business guide, Empowerment and Employment of Survivors of Human Trafficking. The guide describes the effects of human trafficking on survivors as well as survivors’ needs and experiences; actions business can take to empower and employ survivors; and explains the types of organizations that companies can look to for partnership support, including real-world case examples. For businesses interested in engaging on the topic, the guide indicates criteria to look for when assessing survivor-support organizations for partnership, outlines the elements of a strong survivor employment approach, and key considerations for business when deciding whether and how to intentionally integrate survivors into their workforce.

The guide was developed through a literature review as well as interviews and consultations with over 20 organizations that support survivors of human trafficking. The guide also reflects inputs from experts, including survivor leaders from the Survivor Alliance and the National Survivor Network’s Resilient Voices leadership program. This Guide is intended for individuals working in global business departments such as human resources, diversity and inclusion, and community engagement. Personnel in departments that oversee the business’ approach to human trafficking issues (e.g. human rights, public policy, legal, or sustainability) or those who regularly engage with suppliers and contractors (e.g. supply chain or procurement) may also benefit. 

Businesses seeking to learn more about supporting survivors of human trafficking can download the free guide here and reach out to the team to learn more.

More information on the guide can be found on the BSR website here.