Where the focus on human trafficking is heading

When Somaly Mam was accused last year of fraud and dishonesty about her past, the repercussions were felt not just by the foundation that bore her name but also by the entire global anti-trafficking and anti-slavery sector.

On top of the closure of Somaly Mam Foundation, several affiliates have had to tighten their belts and look for other sources of funding. But despite the widespread negative impact, the controversy has a silver lining: It sparked renewed global interest in addressing human trafficking and modern slavery.

“At best, it can be hoped that the current scrutiny [of Somaly Mam], discussions and consequences of certain practices may result in their improvements, especially to the extent that these touch upon structural weaknesses in the anti-trafficking sector,” Annette Lyth, regional project manager of the U.N. Action for Cooperation against Trafficking in Persons, told Devex.