From Commitment to Action: Urban Solutions to Human Trafficking in Liberia

Please join us for a light lunch as we explore “From Commitment to Action: Urban Solutions to Human Trafficking in Liberia and Sierra Leone.”

This event brings together UN Member States, UN agencies, researchers, civil society, and faith-based organizations to explore how evidence-based, community-led partnerships can strengthen responses to human trafficking and contribute to safer, more inclusive, and resilient communities.

As cities and human settlements continue to grow, trafficking networks exploit gaps in protection systems, while many victims remain unidentified and unable to access support. This session will examine persistent global challenges in victim identification and highlight the critical role of research in understanding barriers and strengthening pathways to protection. Speakers will discuss why evidence-based approaches are essential to building safer and more inclusive communities and improving access to protection for vulnerable populations.

The event will also showcase grassroots programming in Liberia and Sierra Leone, highlighting how trusted local networks are strengthening resilience among families and communities and addressing emerging forms of exploitation. Findings from recent research conducted in both countries will provide practical insights into the barriers that prevent victims from being identified and demonstrate how collaboration between local actors, researchers, and practitioners can improve protection outcomes.

Aligned with SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, the event creates space for shared learning and multistakeholder collaboration between governments, international organizations, researchers, and community-based actors. By connecting evidence with practice, the discussion aims to advance inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable communities while strengthening the partnerships needed to combat human trafficking and accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.

Join us on July 13th, 1:15–2:30 PM, at the International Social Justice Commission (221 E 52nd St, New York). Please RSVP by July 11th, 2026.