Advertising can be a powerful force – for good or bad. A recent FTS rescue in the Democratic Republic of the Congo proves the point.
Three teen girls from the village of Nobili thought they were being hired to be waitresses. Instead, they were quickly forced into prostitution. The restaurant owner advertised that the girls were on the menu. As a result, the restaurant was always crowded with men.
Fortunately, Free the Slaves was advertising, too. The girls heard community service announcements on local radio about our Congo project, Jisia Na Haki (gender and justice). Our Congo project partners organize local villagers into protection committees that educate victims and the vulnerable about their rights – in person and on the air.
One of the girls heard our radio message and contacted a protection committeeleader, who called police. The girls were freed, the restaurant was closed and the owner was arrested. Galvanized by this success, officers launched a wider intervention in surrounding communities and dismantled six other pubs that were operating brothels.
Spreading awareness spreads freedom. When trafficking victims learn that freedom is possible, they take action. Learn more about our work in the Congo here.
Exploitation and Extraction: How Armed Groups are Fueling Modern Slavery in DRC’s Cocoa Sector
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.
