Workers Union moves successful motion to increase efforts of the tourism sector to fight human trafficking

A motion aimed at eradicating human trafficking in the tourism industry and across its supply chains has won the support and approval of the Tourism Services Section of the International Transport Workers’ Federation.

The motion, put forward by the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union, was carried on Tuesday, April 18, during a two-day conference held here.

The Union is said to have put forward a convincing case that outlined the vital role the sector should play in preventing human trafficking linked to tourism.

Therefore, the global effort is expected to receive a significant boost from the collective support of unions that are involved in the tourism and transportation industries.

According to the Union, the International Labour Organisation reports that, on any given day, more than 40 million people are victims of human trafficking.

The ABWU, in presenting the motion, spoke to the need to strengthen ongoing efforts by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation to fight exploitation and human trafficking in the industry.

The proposal also served as a response to a challenge from the World Travel and Tourism Council “to enhance understanding of the issues surrounding human trafficking, as many common misunderstandings and wrongful perceptions remain.”