The Blue Heart Campaign is a global initiative led by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to raise awareness of human trafficking and its impact on people and society. Launched in 2009, the campaign serves as a powerful symbol of solidarity and commitment from governments, organizations, civil society, the private sector and individuals to inspire action and help prevent and eradicate this crime. Known for its blue heart symbol, the campaign raises funds to support victims, increase awareness of the dangers of human trafficking and to prevent further cases.
Every year, thousands of men, women and children fall into the hands of traffickers, in their own countries and abroad. Every country in the world is affected by human trafficking, whether as a country of origin, transit or destination for victims. Human traffickers exploit vulnerable individuals of all backgrounds through force, fraud, or deception for profit. The majority of victims are ensnared by highly organized criminal groups, which often use violence, blackmail, emotional manipulation as well as fake education and job opportunities to trick and coerce their victims.
All proceeds of the Blue Heart Campaign go to the United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund for Victims of Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children. The Trust Fund provides vital assistance and protection to the victims of trafficking through a network of specialized organizations across the globe.
On 18th October 2023 Slovakia officially joined the Blue Heart Campaign, underlining its commitment to combat human trafficking. For the launch, the Slovak Government illuminated the presidential palace of Slovakia and is seeking to promote the campaign to people in Slovakia.
From Armenia to Zimbabwe, Slovakia joins a growing number of countries, organizations, companies, non-governmental organizations and individuals who have pledged their support to the Blue Heart Campaign. Led by UNODC, supporters work to identify, address and prevent cases of human trafficking, bringing the world closer to eliminating this heinous crime one step at a time.
Find out more about the Blue Heart Campaign here (in English): www.unodc.org/blueheart
The presidential palace of Slovakia on 18 October 2023
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