Geneva, Switzerland - March 20, 2024 A stark new report by the International Labour Organization (ILO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, reveals the extensive reach and financial gain associated with forced labor. The report, titled "Forced Labour in the World," estimates that criminal organizations generate a staggering $236 billion annually from this illicit activity. This figure represents a significant increase of $64 billion from the previous estimate a decade ago, highlighting the alarming growth of this global problem.
The report emphasizes that sexual exploitation is the primary driver of these profits. This exploitation, encompassing sex trafficking and forced prostitution, accounts for approximately three-quarters of the total revenue. "This figure represents the obscene level of annual profit generated from the exploitation of human beings through forced labor," the report states, underscoring the immense human cost masked by the financial statistics. These illicit profits come at the expense of millions subjected to forced labor conditions, depriving them of wages and fundamental human rights.
Beyond the human cost, the report warns of forced labor's detrimental impact on global economies. It disrupts legitimate labor markets by undercutting wages and creating unfair competition. Additionally, forced labor fuels corruption and strengthens criminal networks, hindering economic development efforts.
The ILO Director-General, Gilbert Houngbo, called for urgent international cooperation to address this pervasive issue. He emphasized the need for coordinated efforts from governments, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organizations to dismantle these criminal networks and liberate victims.
Key Findings:
- Forced labor generates an estimated $236 billion annually for criminal organizations.
- Sexual exploitation is the primary source of profit, accounting for roughly 75% of the total.
- Forced labor undermines legitimate economies and fosters corruption.
- The ILO urges international collaboration to eradicate forced labor.
