Labor and Sex Trafficking Among Homeless Youth

In this study, which determined the prevalence of both labor and sex trafficking among a population of 641 sheltered homeless youth across 10 cities, the researchers found that 8% of the youth had been trafficked for labor. 81% of those who were identified as labor trafficking victims had been compelled to work in illicit trades, such as the drug trade, gangs, or within the sex trade in non-sex roles (such as protection or drivers). Young men and women were both vulnerable to labor traffickers who lured them with lucrative but fraudulent work opportunities. The report provides a recommendations for prevention and response to labor trafficking in this population.