IWD GIVING member Nomi Network explains the complicated reality of human trafficking

A key way to support women's advancement is to participate in IWD GIVING, not only on March 8th but all year long, through supporting the supporters in delivering their impactful work.  

Nomi Network has a mission to end human trafficking by creating pathways to safe employment, empowering women and girls to break cycles of exploitation in their families and communities and rewrite the narratives for future generations. 

Nomi Network has said that among the 50 million people trafficked worldwide, women and girls represent a staggering 80% of those subjected to commercial sexual exploitation and 66% of those forced into early marriage. Nomi Network understands that poverty and economic marginalization are primary drivers that make women and girls vulnerable to exploitation. 

Vulnerability to trafficking is complicated. "When people think of trafficking, they think of the movies where a girl from a nice family is kidnapped and forced into it. The hero then rescues her, and everything is wonderful by the closing credits. The reality is more complicated. Traffickers take advantage of vulnerabilities that affect too many women and girls. When we learn about and address these, we can end human trafficking," explains Nomi Network.

Poverty is a root cause of vulnerability

Poverty remains one of the most significant drivers of human trafficking, including limited access to safe and sustainable economic opportunities. 

Economic desperation means survival is the primary concern. Women in impoverished communities may accept offers promising assurances of employment, education, or a better life, only to find themselves trapped in exploitative labor or sex trafficking networks. 

At Nomi Network, the focus is on income solutions and employment. When a woman is economically empowered, they can meet their family’s needs and have more, safer choices.

Educational gaps can influence barriers to awareness and empowerment

Educational disparities disproportionately affect women, particularly in regions where cultural norms and systemic inequities limit girls’ access to schooling. Without education, women lack the skills to recognize the warning signs of trafficking schemes, understand their rights, and restrict the ability to seek help. 

Gaps in education and lack of a diploma prevent employment and access to vocational training programs. A core component of the Nomi Network program is providing employment readiness and workforce development training. Adolescent girls are empowered to continue their education and explore employment and career options.

A lack of social capital can result in isolation and exploitation

Social capital - the networks and relationships that provide support and resources - is a crucial protective factor against trafficking. Women with robust social connections are more likely to have access to information, support systems, and opportunities that reduce their vulnerability. 

Women marginalized by race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status often have limited access to the social capital needed to escape cycles of exploitation. Social isolation, whether due to migration, discrimination, or cultural barriers, creates greater risk. 

Women and girls are surrounded by a supportive community with Nomi Network. Staff are trained in trauma-informed practices, and cohorts comprise peers with the same experiences and goals.

Addressing the intersectionality of vulnerabilities

Poverty, educational gaps, and lack of social capital rarely exist in isolation; they are interrelated and mutually reinforcing. Additionally, many women who have been trafficked have had interactions with the criminal justice system, often as a result of their exploitation. 

The criminalization of activities associated with trafficking can lead to arrests, incarceration, and fines. Criminal records prevent women from being considered for jobs. Foster youth are also more vulnerable, with some of the highest rates of trafficking. Nomi Network addresses these aspects by working with women and youth who are justice-involved and may be from foster care. 

At Nomi Network, women and girls address these vulnerabilities through life skills and employment readiness training, joining a supportive community of trauma-informed practitioners and survivors, and accessing new education and career opportunities. Nomi Network makes multi-year commitments to every girl and woman so they have time to write a better future story where they end exploitation and reach their full potential.

Help build a world where every woman and girl can be free

Want to support Nomi Network's mission? 

Help Nomi Network end human trafficking through economic empowerment by donating today.