Human Trafficking at Events

July 7, 2026 | EHT Team |

Message from the End Human Trafficking Team

“For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited me; I was in prison and you came to Me.” – Matthew 25:35-36 (NKJV)

There have been spectacular international events recently that have showcased how we can gather from throughout the world to celebrate together and enjoy living as God intended. Many nations sent tall ships (44 tall ships representing 55 nations) and air show teams to the United States to celebrate the 250^th Birthday of living under “In God We Trust”. Forty-eight soccer or football teams from six continents are currently competing in Mexico, Canada, and the United States, participating in the World Cup, which will end with one champion on July 19. The stadia have been full the crowds celebrating their countries and respecting each other. People from many nations have learned more about the United States, and the people of the United States have learned more about other countries.

As with many large events, all is not well. As the crowds increase, despicable people take advantage of vulnerable people. However, the 2026 World Cup has made us aware in a widespread manner that human trafficking exists, and nations, states, and cities have taken action to prevent trafficking, have caught predators, and have rescued victims. This energy, commitment, and dedication will not end on July 19; it will be sustained and continue to curtail human trafficking. This is where we come in – we must pray that this work continues and support everyone who is striving to End Human Trafficking.

Below is information regarding preparations and actions aimed at human trafficking associated with the World Cup:

Nearly 200 volunteers fan out across Houston suburbs to fight trafficking ahead of World Cup rush. Elijah Rising
As half a million World Cup fans flood Kansas City, we’re thrilled to announce that we already have 175 volunteers for our outreach initiative
FBI Boston and Rhode Island State Police say 13 were arrested in a World Cup-linked human trafficking sting targeting child exploitation
World Cup sex trafficking bust in San Francisco nets several arrests
Operation Red Card: 7 arrested, 10 rescued in Florida human trafficking operation during World Cup

There is much more taking place throughout the world regarding human trafficking; see the following headlines:

Mozambique – Police rescue 20 children and detain two trafficking suspects
The Korea Times – Trafficking victims recognized as officials widen inspections of … “Violent abuse and forced labor”
Việt Nam’s Human Trafficking Crisis – The Vietnamese Magazine The Asylos report exposes a terrifying new development in human exploitation: technology-facilitated forced criminality
Gov’t intensifies fight vs. trafficking as Metro Manila registers highest number of survivors
Taiwan Insight – Women and children forced into sex trafficking. Traffickers also subject people from Taiwan to forced labor in some European countries.
UK Grooming Gangs Inquiry Will Scrutinize How Institutions Failed to Protect Girls

In just eleven days after the World Cup ends, on July 30, will be the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons designated by the United Nations Office of Crime and Drugs (UNODC). On World Day against Trafficking in Persons 2026, UNODC calls for greater action to protect victims and strengthen cross-border judicial and law enforcement cooperation to disrupt transnational organized crime groups.

The foregoing events and activities tell us that, though there are many good signs related to ending human trafficking, it is still a colossal worldwide fight. As stated in 1 Thessalonians 5: 16- 17 (NKJV), “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” In prayer and in action, we need to reach out locally to people and organizations combating human trafficking and caring for survivors.

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