Human Trafficking
in ​​​​​​​Eastern Europe
The majority of known human trafficking in Eastern Europe is covert, export/source related, well financed and associated with organized crime and related industries.
Because of its covert nature, hidden from the general public, human trafficking is difficult to find, track and prosecute.
Traditional sting operations like those used in the Carribbean and SE Asia are virtually useless in this region.
Although it is difficult to quantify, there are potentially 300,000+ human trafficking victims annually.
Law Enforcement and Human Trafficking Task Forces have had some training, but are understaffed and underfunded. These teams need additional specialized training, especially in the areas of Financial Investigation, Cyber-tracking and Identification.
Mission 823 is actively involved in the three major aspects of human trafficking reduction and elimination:
PREVENTION: Identifying at-risk children and teens and providing opportunities for self-improvement and inclusion in family units. Providing awareness and resource materials to children and their communities.
RESTORATION: Providing physical, spiritual, emotional and psychological healing in order to stabilize these young people and prepare them for real world re-entry.
RESCUE: Working in cooperation with local and international task forces and law enforcement, facilitating the rescue of victims held in modern-day slavery.