Shame was an important reason why I was in prostitution for so long,” says Sandra Novak. She was in prostitution for years in Germany. She felt guilty that she was so naive as to sell herself for a “boyfriend”. This shame kept her in prostitution, she didn’t get help because she didn’t allow herself to get help.

Human trafficking is one of the darkest and most nefarious practices plaguing our society. Despite decades of efforts to raise awareness and enact laws to combat this form of exploitation, human trafficking remains a widespread reality that affects millions of people worldwide. From sexual exploitation to forced labor to organ trafficking, the range of atrocities associated with human trafficking is staggering and demands answers. The huge issue of human trafficking is overwhelming and often leaves people at a loss for advice and action. What can we do about it?

Sandra’s story shows that people want dignity and value. They judge themselves enough. If we treat them as equals, take them seriously and give them a voice, we can make a difference. Here are two simple ways you can stand up for more human dignity:

How to make the difference

Consumption is closely linked to human trafficking as, depending on the place of production, the goods are manufactured with the exploitation of labor. For example, workers in the clothing industry earn just 18 centimes per T-shirt or cruise ship employees have to work for up to 8 months at a time. Such undignified working conditions take place in all sectors. Consumers often unwittingly support human trafficking. We drink coffee that has been picked by children or go to a barber or nail salon where the employees are not adequately paid. Our purchasing decisions have a direct influence on the market. Products manufactured under fair conditions have their price. The second-hand market, the repair café or the swap meet are worthwhile. We curb human trafficking when we buy products at fair prices and, above all, consume less. In practical terms, this means, for example, making full use of a smartphone’s lifespan instead of regularly buying the latest model. Smartphones contain rare metals that are often mined in crisis regions – where human rights are not respected. Unfortunately, there are hardly any fairly produced smartphones. The clothing industry is a small step further. There are various companies that are committed to fair conditions. It’s worth taking a look on the internet. With our consumption, we can set an example against human trafficking. We believe that together we can bring hope and a measure of justice to people around the world.

All people have the same value – Walk For Freedom

Once a year, we walk in the Walk For Freedom for all those people who cannot raise their voices themselves. Or, like Sandra, are ashamed to do so. Together, we walk through the streets in a silent single file and raise awareness of the issue of human trafficking. We are campaigning for a world in which all people have the same opportunities. We show that all people have the same value.

The next Walk For Freedom will take place on Saturday, October 19, 2024, in Bern, Basel, Lucerne, Zurich and Neuchâtel. Through our collective voice and action, we can create a world where all people have equal opportunities and where no one has to remain silent.

Michèle Marti, a Lona Project Team Member, is a networker and was delighted when she found a pair of second-hand dungarees to match.