India
There are millions of people trapped in forms of modern slavery in India: more than anywhere else in the world, according to some estimates.
While India has strong laws against both sex trafficking and forced labour, historically, these anti-slavery laws have not been enforced, and traffickers and slave owners have exploited children, women and men with impunity.
When we first began work in India, slavery seemed hidden: Many people told us they didn’t believe it still existed in the country, and those who were aware of it didn’t have hope that anything could change.
But the scales are starting to tip toward justice—and, every day, we are seeing proof that makes us more confident that slavery in India can end within our lifetime.
RESCUE VICTIMS
We uncover cases of sex trafficking and support local, national and specialized anti-trafficking police forces with rescue operations, help with evidence collection and provide crisis counselling for survivors during rescue operations.
BRING CRIMINALS TO JUSTICE
Our advocates support the prosecution of traffickers, pimps and other perpetrators, and our social workers help survivors who have chosen to testify prepare to share the truth in court.
RESTORE SURVIVORS
We partner with several aftercare homes in India to ensure that survivors have a safe place to live, and provide ongoing trauma therapy and vocational and educational support.
STRENGTHEN JUSTICE SYSTEMS
We equip local law enforcement partners with tools and training to combat sex trafficking, raise awareness and help others in the community respond.
RESCUE VICTIMS
We uncover cases of forced labour and help local authorities and police units conduct rescue operations—ensuring that each victim receives an official government Release Certificate, which entitles him or her to government support.
BRING CRIMINALS TO JUSTICE
We advocate for police reports to be filed against owners, and fight in court for perpetrators to be convicted and sentenced.
RESTORE SURVIVORS
IJM social workers help support released slaves for at least two years, providing counselling and ensuring that children are able to go to school and adults can begin dignifying jobs in freedom.
STRENGTHEN JUSTICE SYSTEMS
We equip local law enforcement partners with tools and training to combat sex trafficking, raise awareness and help others in the community respond.