Freedom of expression

Slavery still exists. 49.6 million people are trapped in slavery around the world today – including in the UK. One in four is a child. Over half are women and girls.

Modern slavery is an umbrella term referring to various forms of extreme exploitation, including human trafficking, bonded and forced labour, the worst forms of child labour, commercial sexual exploitation, forced marriage and domestic servitude.

To mark World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, Freedom of Expression elevates the voices of young people vulnerable to, and survivors of, the commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) who are working with our partners in Brazil and Bangladesh. Through their artworks, they share what freedom means to them.

Casa Menina Mulher

Brazil

Casa Menina Mulher operates in the centre of Recife, Brazil, serving children, adolescents and young people aged 10 – 24 years old, often from low-income families and in vulnerable situations on the streets. Casa Menina Mulher focuses on supporting young people through education and prevention activities.

Centro de Mulheres do Cabo

Brazil

Centro das Mulheres do Cabo is a organisation dedicated to the political empowerment of women and the guarantee of rights for children, adolescents and youth. It operates in networks and forums, promoting equity, inclusion and respect for diversity.

Coletivo Mulher Vida

Brazil

Coletivo Mulher Vida is a non-profit social organisation, based in Olinda, Pernambuco state, north-eastern Brazil, working with children, adolescents, women and families, and prioritises those from socially excluded communities. It addresses domestic, sexual and sexist violence and promotes human rights.

INCIDIN

Bangladesh

INCIDIN Bangladesh is a research, advocacy and capacity building organisation, with the aim of assisting and working with communities affected by issues, including the exploitation of children.

Instituto Aliança

Brazil

Instituto Aliança is a civil society organisation whose mission is to educate people, organisations and communities through educational activities and also contributes to public policies for children.

Karmojibi Kallayan Sangstha

Bangladesh

Karmojibi Kallayan Sangstha runs a safe house and schools for the children of sex workers, and also works to address the issue of trafficking, particularly of women and children.

Shapla Mohila Sangstha

Bangladesh

Shapla Mohila Sangstha is a women-led welfare organisation and is committed to improving the quality of lives of marginalised people through human rights, education and better health.