Human trafficking in Scotland

Information

The Epstein Files have focused the world’s attention on one of the most pervasive human rights abuses of our time, human trafficking. One in three victims of modern slavery is believed to be a child. Traffickers generate billions annually, exploiting people across borders, industries and online spaces. Figures show that almost 80% of women and girls trafficked in Scotland suffered sexual exploitation and the numbers are rising. What is Scotland doing to address this global issue?

Panellists:

Bronagh Andrew is Operations Manager with Trafficking Awareness Raising Alliance (TARA), TARA provides a specialist response to women trafficked to meet the demand of the sex trade, who are recovered from across the whole of Scotland. Bronagh has a post graduate Diploma in Social Work and was employed by Routes Out of Prostitution in 2000, before moving to focus on trafficking for commercial sexual exploitation with Glasgow City Council. She supported the development of the TARA Service and has been Operations Manager for over 10 years.

Andy Sirel is a co-founding Partner and Legal Director at JustRight Scotland. He has been working in human rights law for 16 years, and specialises in immigration, asylum, anti-trafficking and child law. He sits on various government working groups and regularly gives evidence to the Scottish Parliament.

Joy M Gillespie is the CEO of SOHTIS (Survivors of Human Trafficking in Scotland) who are committed to ending human trafficking in Scotland by recovering victims, supporting survivors and influencing policy. With over 25 years in third sector strategic development across Scotland, Africa and Asia, she is passionate about justice and committed to long-term, sustainable solutions which amplify victims' voices.