Skip to content

Research

We build evidence and share knowledge about what works. Our research — which is rooted in the realities of frontline organisations, survivors and community members — seeks to identify what is needed to tackle modern slavery at national, regional and global levels.

Overview (2014-2025)

128 Reports published

72 Research partners

22 Prevalence studies published

 

Featured report: How lack of identity documents drives exploitation and modern slavery

A report by the United Nations University Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR) and the Freedom Fund reveals the links between lacking official documentation and modern slavery. One in nine people around the world (approximately 850 million) still lack official documentation. Populations most affected include women, children, rural families and people with low literacy.

Without documentation, people are routinely denied essential services, such as healthcare, education and financial systems – perpetuating cycles of marginalisation, poverty and exploitation. When they fall into situations of abuse and modern slavery, they often remain trapped due to mistrust or fears of the authorities who are responsible for providing protection and support.

Slavery Research Bulletin

The Freedom Fund shares the newest research from leading experts and organisations in the anti-slavery sector through our Research Bulletin.  Sign up to receive the monthly bulletin!

Stay updated

Keep up with the latest anti-slavery research.

Research library

The Freedom Fund manages the largest research library on modern slavery, which is updated monthly with reports, academic journals, books and tools from around the world.

Search the library for anti-slavery resources from across the globe, or make a suggestion.

Monitoring and Evaluation of Trafficking in Persons

If you are an expert in monitoring, evaluation, and research in the anti-trafficking sector, we are pleased to introduce you the Monitoring and Evaluation of Trafficking in Persons (METIP) community of practice.

The global network of METIP members meets quarterly to share best practices, brainstorm ideas and strategies, and solve problems together to help increase the body and quality of evidence underpinning counter trafficking programs and policies. We are always looking to connect with more professionals working in our field.

If you believe you belong in METIP please apply to join!