Inspired by the work of Mrs. Cindy McCain, the Institute’s Humanitarian Action work focuses on combatting human trafficking, as well as the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Human Trafficking
America was founded on, and fought a civil war over, the principles of freedom, liberty, equality and justice for all. Yet today, around the world, and even within our own borders, millions of people live in forms of modern-day slavery: from sex trafficking to forced labor to the exploitation of children.
Some astounding global estimates include:
• 27 Million- Number of people trapped in modern-day slavery across the world.
• 12-14 the average trafficking victims’ age in the US
• 1 Million- Number of children exploited by the global commercial sex trade every year.
• 80%- Percent of transnational victims that are women and girls.
• 161- Number of countries identified as affected by human trafficking.
• 32 Billion- Estimated annual profits generated by human trafficking industry.
Many other experts and organizations have long worked to fight human trafficking. We approach this challenge not to replicate their work, but instead determined to work together with all those who share our goals. Under the leadership of Cindy McCain, the analytical potential of Arizona State University, and the convening power of an innovative “do-tank” in Washington, we aim to bring about transformational change, including:
Strengthening Anti-Trafficking Legislation in the Mountain States
Facilitating Information Sharing on Human Trafficking
Leveraging National Security Assets to Fight Human Trafficking
Training the Next Generation of Leaders to Fight Human Trafficking
The Democratic Republic of Congo
The McCain Institute’s focus on the Democratic Republic of Congo stems from Mrs. Cindy McCain’s deep interest in and support of the Congo and the Congolese people. The Institute seeks opportunities to assist the government, private sector, and non-profit community in making more informed and more strategic programmatic and policy decisions concerning the Congo.
The Leadership
To read about the Institute’s Humanitarian Action team, click here.
