World Vision applauds new U.S. government counter-trafficking policy

WASHINGTON, DC (February 27, 2012) — World Vision applauds the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for its innovative and focused approach to combating modern day slavery with the release of its first Counter-Trafficking in Persons Policy. The newly created policy follows several years of discussion between World Vision, the United States government and other anti-trafficking organizations eager to establish a policy that would provide strategic investments in innovation and technology while also building on-the-ground partnerships to help prevent vulnerability, protect survivors, and prosecute those involved in trafficking.

"This is a huge encouragement for us as an organization and it presents a tremendous opportunity to speak out on behalf of the millions of people around the world ensnared in the vicious cycles of trafficking," said Jesse Eaves, World Vision's policy advisor for children in crisis. "The State Department and USAID are showing how even limited funds can be used in a targeted way for the greatest impact around the world. Now, if only Congress would stop playing politics with slavery, we could see some real progress on this issue."

World Vision endorses USAID's approach and has worked for the past three years to pass similar legislation in the Child Protection Compact Act; key provisions of this act are now also included in the Senate's version of the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA) which is the centerpiece of all US anti-slavery policies. Now, World Vision urges Congress to pass the TVPRA, allowing U.S. diplomatic and development efforts to work hand-in-hand to fight the exploitation of children and adults around the world.

-END-

About World Vision: World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families, and their communities worldwide reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. We serve the world's poor — regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender. For more information on their efforts, visit WorldVision.org/press or follow them on Twitter at @WorldVisionNews