September 23: International Day Against Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking

Every September 23 marks the International Day Against Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking of Women, Girls, and Boys, a crucial date to reflect on one of the most severe and persistent human rights violations globally. Understanding the dynamics surrounding this issue is essential for advancing toward a more just, aware, and protective society.

The Origin of the Commemoration

The establishment of this historic date stems from key milestones:

• 1913: Argentina enacted the world’s first law aimed at punishing child prostitution.
• 1999: During the World Conference of the Coalition Against Trafficking in Persons, held in Dhaka (Bangladesh) in coordination with the Women’s Conference, September 23 was officially designated as the global day to raise awareness about this issue.

Understanding Human Trafficking: Data and Global Context

Human trafficking involves the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of people through coercion, fraud, or deception for the purpose of exploitation. According to the United Nations:

• Sexual exploitation represents one of the most prevalent forms of trafficking, affecting more than half of registered victims worldwide.
• 72% of identified trafficking victims globally are women and girls, reflecting a pronounced dimension of gender and vulnerability.

As United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres noted:

“Human trafficking in any form constitutes a grave violation of human rights. If we work together, we can end exploitation once and for all.”