Читать книгу Social Problems in the Age of COVID-19 Vol 2 - Группа авторов - Страница 17

In addition to considering the problem from an organizational or governmental perspective, we can also consider it from an individual perspective by exploring what the average person can do to help those at heightened risk of trafficking during the pandemic. Individuals can work to educate themselves about human trafficking so that they can learn the signs, risk factors, new issues that have arisen due to the pandemic, work being done to address the problem, and ways that they can help. They can also take advantage of any training or education on human trafficking provided by nonprofit and government agencies so that they are aware of the signs of trafficking and steps that they can take to support survivors. Because the pandemic has raised the need for virtual training and education options, such training and education programs may become more accessible for all as barriers such as transportation are removed. Finally, they give support directly to human trafficking organizations to the extent that they are able, including financial donations and time spent volunteering if it is safe to do so.

Moving forward, and especially in light of the current challenges faced by human trafficking organizations, support from others and a sense of collaboration will be key in prevention and rescue efforts of human trafficking survivors during the time of the COVID-​19 pandemic. As society works to combat the virus, we must ensure that we do not forget those who are most at risk. Human trafficking and other social problems have not stopped due to the pandemic, and are still deserving of attention and resources. Human trafficking existed long before the pandemic and will continue to exist after, but by coming together and supporting those working to combat it, we can bring about positive, long-​term change.