ENTER THE TECH CONTEST!
Our counter-trafficking in persons Tech Contest for college and university students worldwide is now OPEN! Traffickers use technology, such as cell phones and social networking sites, to ensnare their victims. However, technology can be used in positive ways to prevent trafficking and provide assistance to survivors. Through the Tech Contest, you have the opportunity to share your unique ideas about how to use technology to combat trafficking in the developing world. You can submit your entry anytime between now and midnight January 8, 2013. Winners will be announced in February 2013 and will receive prizes of up to $5000. Winners will also be invited to showcase and discuss their winning ideas with USAID representatives and our donor and implementing partners combating human trafficking. You may submit an entry on your own, with a partner, or as part of a team.
What is trafficking in persons (TIP)?
Trafficking in Persons (TIP), also called modern day slavery, is an international crime. It is a violation of human rights in which individual victims are deprived of their humanity and basic freedom. Traffickers use force, fraud or coercion to exploit an individual for profit though forced labor or prostitution, or both.
The many faces of TIP
Children across the world are subjected to forced labor. This young girl toils under the hot sun, making bricks from morning to night.
The many faces of TIP
Women and men are trafficked into forced labor in many industries such as fishing, agriculture, construction, domestic servitude, and textiles.
The many faces of TIP
Children are forcibly recruited by government or rebel militias to serve as combatants, sex slaves and cooks in conflict-affected countries.
Holding Ourselves Accountable
Complicity by the international community in human trafficking, whether by host governments, international organizations, donors, NGOs, or contractors—especially in conflict and disaster regions—has been well documented. In February 2011, USAID adopted a Counter-Trafficking in Persons Code of Conduct that advances the highest ethical standards of its personnel, contractors and grantees. Through this Code of Conduct, USAID seeks to be a leader in ensuring all staff are trained to the highest standards.
There is hope
Where there is resolve to combat injustice, there is hope. We call upon you to challenge the repression faced by millions. Armed with knowledge and innovative approaches to problems, you, the thinkers of the next generation, have the capacity to bring justice and help liberate individuals who are victimized. Bring the possibility of a new and better life to over 20 million victims who wake every day in bondage. Help end human trafficking in your lifetime.
