Blog
My Journey as a Survivor Leader
From surviving human trafficking to leading the fight against it, Bernadette Agano shares her powerful journey of transformation and advocacy. Through her work with Free the Slaves in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bernadette has empowered fellow survivors, influenced policies, and helped build a national survivor network. Her story is a testament to resilience, solidarity, and the urgent need for action in the fight against modern slavery.
Leading with Purpose: My Journey of Empowerment
From surviving human trafficking to becoming a leader and advocate, Fauziah Wanjiru’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and purpose. Through her work with Free the Slaves and the Survivor Network Kenya, Fauziah has amplified the voices of survivors, influenced national policies, and empowered others to reclaim their freedom. Her story is a powerful testament to the impact of survivor leadership in the fight against modern slavery.
My Journey of Empowerment: From Survivor to Leader
At Free the Slaves, we believe that survivors of modern slavery are not just part of the solution—they are the heart of it. When survivors are given the tools, support, and opportunities to lead, they can transform not only their own lives but also the lives of others.
Today, we’re sharing the story of Eileen Beryl Oginga, a survivor whose journey from victim to leader demonstrates the power of survivor-centered solutions. With courage, resilience, and the support of Free the Slaves, Eileen has become a champion for change, inspiring hope and action in the fight against modern slavery.
Breaking Chains: Kenya Becomes a Pathfinder Country in the Global Fight Against Exploitation
On December 6, 2024, Kenya unveiled a groundbreaking roadmap to combat child labor, forced labor, human trafficking, and modern slavery. Presented at the 19th Global Coordinating Group meeting in Turin, Italy, this strategy establishes Kenya as a Pathfinder Country under the Alliance 8.7 framework, highlighting its commitment to human rights and survivor-centered solutions.
Modern Slavery in the Philippines: A Closer Look
Despite significant progress in anti-trafficking efforts, modern slavery continues to impact an estimated 859,000 people in the Philippines. Vulnerable groups, including migrants, children, and women, face exploitation in forced labor, sex trafficking, online abuse, and hazardous industries. While the Philippines has retained Tier 1 status in the 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report, systemic challenges like corruption and insufficient victim screening hinder further advancements. This blog explores the forms of modern slavery affecting the country and outlines actionable steps to strengthen protections and support survivors.
Empowering Students to Combat Modern Slavery with Xavier University
Free the Slaves partnered with Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan’s National Service Training Program to educate over 110 students on modern slavery. Through workshops, students explored actionable solutions, such as leveraging social media and participating in local discussions, to fight human trafficking. This initiative highlights the pivotal role of youth in creating a world free from exploitation.
Modern Slavery in Bangladesh: Alliance 8.7 and the Accountability Framework
Modern slavery remains a critical issue in Bangladesh, taking forms such as child labor, bonded labor, and human trafficking. A recent webinar, hosted by Free the Slaves, CWCS, and the Alliance 8.7 Secretariat, explored the country’s challenges and progress in eradicating forced labor. Featuring insights on Bangladesh’s current efforts, the benefits of Alliance 8.7 membership, and the role of the accountability framework, the event highlighted the urgent need for collaboration to achieve a slavery-free future.
Challenges on the Road to SDG Target 8.7
In 2023, a Filipino man seeking legal work was deceived into forced labor by a crime syndicate, highlighting a growing crisis: modern slavery. Despite global commitments like SDG Target 8.7, 50 million people remain trapped in exploitation, fueled by factors such as digital technology misuse, climate change vulnerabilities, and illicit financial systems. Tackling these interconnected challenges requires bold action, collaboration, and innovative solutions. Together, we can disrupt the systems enabling modern slavery and create a future where freedom is a reality for all.
A Call to Action: How Stakeholders Can Drive Alliance 8.7’s Mission Forward
Imagine a world without forced labor or child exploitation. For some, it’s a moral imperative; for others, it feels like a distant dream. Alliance 8.7 refuses to see it as unattainable. This global partnership accelerates progress toward ending forced labor and child exploitation through collaboration between governments, businesses, NGOs, and survivors. By championing accountability, transparency, and survivor-led change, these stakeholders unite to turn intention into action. Together, they illuminate the path toward a future where justice and freedom are universal rights.