How the Travel and Tourism Industry Can Be Partners in Protecting Children

Behind the breathtaking landscapes and diverse cuisines that draw us to travel, the rapid growth of travel and tourism can also pose serious risks to children when strong protections are not in place. As people journey to new destinations in greater numbers than ever before, yearning for learning, adventure, and discovery, those who seek to exploit children can take advantage of these same pathways.

A large crowd packed into a stadium cheered during a soccer game.

These risks are amplified during large-scale events, as surges in tourism increase vulnerability and enable trafficking victims to go unnoticed in public spaces. Protect All Children from Trafficking (PACT) has worked with survivors, who have shared that their traffickers would get excited in the lead-up to “game day,” recognizing these events as prime opportunities. Child trafficking spikes not only around major sporting events, but also during concerts, business conventions, and, as we saw in 2024, Comic Con.

Looking ahead to FIFA in 2026, which will draw millions of visitors across host cities, it is critical to acknowledge how global events can increase vulnerability and learn how to take proactive steps to protect children before, during, and after these periods of mass tourism.

Because hotels, airports, public transportation, and rideshares are common points of intersection for human trafficking, people working in travel and tourism are on the frontlines. With the right awareness and tools, they are uniquely positioned to identify potential instances of trafficking and sexual exploitation and can safely report them.

Training Staff to Recognize Potential Signs

Education is critical because widespread misinformation shapes how people think trafficking looks. Many people expect child trafficking to involve dramatic physical restraints, but most individuals experiencing trafficking do not present that way. By training all staff, everyone can play a role in staying alert and responding if they notice that something is wrong. Here are some questions to help you evaluate a trafficking situation:

• Are they traveling during unusual hours and/or traveling with an older person who seems to be controlling them?

• Are they dressed weather-appropriately?

• Are they easily startled, afraid, have their head down, and/or avoid eye contact?

• Do they have any identifying marks or tattoos on their body?

• Do they provide scripted responses, or are they not allowed to speak for themselves?

These are some potential signs, but context is key in discerning whether the signs you see are actually trafficking or something else entirely. If you suspect an instance of human trafficking, it’s important not to directly intervene; help is available at the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or by texting 233733 (BEFREE).

Establish a Clear and Accessible Reporting Policy

A group of people places their hands on top of one another in a circle.

Creating a safe environment for everyone begins with empowering staff to speak up when something doesn’t seem right. It is essential to have a clear protocol outlining what actions to take, whom to report concerns to, and who must be notified internally. If your state does not advise on posting human-trafficking signage, you can provide employees with a list of key resources in your handbook. Be sure to include important contacts such as the National Human Trafficking Hotline.

Implement The Code

The travel and tourism industry has already implemented practices to take a stand against the sexual exploitation of children. Companies in aviation, hospitality, rideshare, and more have signed onto The Code, the world’s first and only voluntary set of business principles that travel and tour companies can implement to prevent sexual exploitation and trafficking of children. By joining The Code, you will gain access to essential tools, training, and staff support to help your team implement a zero-tolerance policy against human trafficking.

Many Code members have invited PACT to speak at events and conferences to educate their teams on what trafficking is, how to recognize it, and how to help prevent it. In addition, every Code member receives a comprehensive manual and develops their own implementation plan to demonstrate compliance with The Code’s six criteria. Joining The Code also opens the door to a network of like-minded businesses that support child protection. The travel and tourism industry has a responsibility to take a strong stand to protect children and lead by example. As more people become educated about child sexual exploitation and trafficking, they are better equipped to recognize warning signs and understand how to report their suspicions. 

Did You Know?

One of the most common misconceptions is that an American can travel to another country where the age of consent is lower, and legally engage in sexual activity with a minor. This is simply not true. U.S. federal law strictly prohibits any American citizen or resident from traveling abroad with the intent to engage in sexual conduct with anyone under 18. Under the PROTECT Act of 2003, individuals can be prosecuted in the U.S. for sexual acts with minors overseas, even if those acts are considered legal in the country where they occur.

What Next?

PACT has developed a free 25-minute online training for travel professionals that provides a comprehensive overview of human trafficking, including potential red flags to look out for and how to safely report suspicious activity. It is suitable for anyone interested in learning more!