Free the Slaves met with national stakeholders in Chile to explore new avenues for collaboration in the fight against human trafficking and forced labor. Through targeted training, a national seminar, and strategic discussions with government officials, this visit laid the groundwork for future partnerships to strengthen institutional capacity and advance anti-slavery efforts across the country.

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s cocoa sector is growing—but so is the exploitation behind it. New research by Free the Slaves reveals how armed groups and corrupt actors are using violence, forced labor, and smuggling to control cocoa production in eastern DRC. As cocoa beans flow into global supply chains, the human cost remains hidden. This new report examines the links between modern slavery and illicit resource appropriation—and what governments, industry, and the international community must do to stop it.

Free the Slaves, in partnership with local NGOs in Mexico, recently conducted an intensive five-day training on the Community Liberation Initiative (CLI) in Mexico City. This program equips frontline organizations with practical strategies to combat forced labor and child exploitation at the community level.

Participants engaged in hands-on exercises and real-world case studies to strengthen their understanding of human trafficking and develop tailored action plans for their communities. With a focus on mobilization, protection, legal frameworks, reintegration, and monitoring, the CLI model ensures that local efforts lead to sustainable, long-term impact in the fight against modern slavery.

Slavery remains a pressing issue in Mauritania despite legal reforms over the years. In a significant move, the Mauritanian government has established a specialized court to prosecute cases of slavery, human trafficking, and migrant smuggling. This initiative aims to strengthen justice, enhance human rights protections, and ensure accountability. With growing national and international support, this step marks a critical moment in the fight against modern slavery.

The journey from victim to survivor is one of resilience and courage—but for many, the journey doesn’t stop there. In India, members of Azad Shakti Abhiyan (ASA), a survivor-led collective, are using their lived experiences to lead the fight against modern slavery and human trafficking. With over 400 members working across the most affected districts of Uttar Pradesh, ASA is raising awareness, identifying cases, and ensuring survivors receive the support they need.

Effective action against modern slavery requires more than just awareness—it demands precision. Misused or misunderstood terms can weaken policies, misdirect resources, and fail those most affected. The Modern Slavery Glossary, developed by Free the Slaves, is a vital resource designed to standardize the language used in advocacy, policy, and survivor engagement.