The United Nations’ International Organization for Migration (IOM) has launched Anyone a Victim, a global campaign aimed at preventing human trafficking and expanding support for survivors. The initiative seeks to raise public awareness, mobilize funding for protection programs, and emphasize that trafficking remains a widespread human rights violation worldwide. IOM Director General Amy Pope highlighted that human trafficking has long-lasting impacts on survivors and stressed that every individual should have access to safety, justice, and long-term support, while communities must be empowered to prevent exploitation.
An estimated 50 million people globally live under conditions of forced labour, trafficking, or forced marriage, with conflict, disasters, and economic instability exacerbating their vulnerability. These factors limit safe options, increase reliance on unsafe pathways, and heighten the risk for already marginalized populations. Trafficking flourishes in areas where protection systems are weak and individuals lack access to safety, dignity, and stable livelihoods.
The campaign emphasizes survivor experiences, challenging common misconceptions about who is at risk and showcasing that trafficking affects people of all ages and backgrounds. By bringing these stories to the forefront, IOM encourages public support for programs that provide safety, assistance, and recovery, while promoting rights-based, community-centered approaches across countries of origin, transit, and destination.
Many survivors face stigma, fear of reporting, and limited access to recovery services. The campaign seeks to counter harmful assumptions by sharing lived experiences, building understanding, and fostering collective action against exploitation. It features IOM Goodwill Ambassadors such as Sir Mo Farah, America Ferrera, and Kofi Kinaata, alongside Global Advocate Pritika Swarup, who use their platforms to raise awareness and engage audiences in anti-trafficking efforts.
Sir Mo Farah shared his personal experience, emphasizing the importance of visibility, support, and community engagement in enabling survivors to heal. He underlined that while trafficking leaves lasting marks, these should not define survivors, and that collective action and investment in recovery can make healing possible.
Through the campaign, IOM reaffirms its commitment to supporting survivors, strengthening community protection, and promoting safe pathways to reduce exploitation. The organization collaborates with governments, civil society, and affected communities to develop solutions that uphold rights, expand access to essential services, and enable individuals to rebuild their lives with dignity and stability.
