The Global Slavery Index estimates that there are at least 10,000 victims of human trafficking in Hong Kong. This figure likely represents only the tip of the iceberg when we consider the grossly underreported and hidden nature of this crime.

Hong Kong is currently ranked Tier 2 in the US Department of State’s Trafficking in Persons Report 2019. Despite an upgrade from last year’s Tier 2 Watchlist ranking, it is clear that Hong Kong still has a long way to go in the fight against human trafficking.

Currently, there is no comprehensive anti-trafficking law in Hong Kong. The only legal provision that deals specifically with human trafficking (section 129 of the Crimes Ordinance, Cap. 200), applies only to trafficking across borders for the purpose of prostitution. No other forms of trafficking are criminalized, including forced labour. The current piecemeal legislative approach fails to identify and punish the perpetrators of the crime of human trafficking and fails to deliver justice and provide support for survivors of human trafficking.

As global citizens in Asia’s World City, let’s step up to raise awareness about human trafficking and be part of the solution in creating a more just world.

STOP is a local Hong Kong initiative that works to combat human trafficking in and through Hong Kong. It does this through:

• Legal referral and social assistance
• Community outreach
• Network building
• Public education
• Research and advocacy

HK$200,000 will help 15 human trafficking survivors live in secure accommodation for 6 months and cover their repatriation costs.
HK$200,000 will support 60 human trafficking survivors for 6-month medical assistance.

Hear more about the victims' stories at http://100storieshk.org