Human trafficking in supply chains

Human trafficking can hide in the products we buy every day, from clothes and electronics to food and construction materials. Complex global supply chains and demand for cheap goods and services fuel this exploitation, which is one of the most prevalent forms of human trafficking. Detecting and removing this risk can make labour trafficking less profitable and widespread. Governments and businesses both have a role to play. Through a comprehensive project launched in 2016, now in its third phase (2024–2028), the Office supports participating States and businesses in implementing concrete measures to detect and eliminate trafficking risks. 

Guided by the 2011 Ministerial Declaration and Decision No. 6/17, this effort operates through three priorities: prevention through government practices, prevention in the OSCE’s procurement, and prevention in private sector supply chains. The OSCE co-founded the multi-agency Task Force, part of the UN Sustainable Procurement Working Group, and serves as its Secretariat, promoting ethical sourcing.