Research and Policy

     With former Congresswoman Linda Smith at the helm, Shared Hope International has been at the forefront of the fight against human trafficking. Using Linda’s extensive knowledge of policy and legislation, Shared Hope has charged ahead, combating trafficking through Congress and the courts.

     In 2003, Shared Hope International collaborated with the U.S. Department of State and organized the first World Summit. Representatives from around the world joined forces to bring their countries in conformity with international standards of combating human trafficking. In recent years, Shared Hope partnered with ECPAT-USA and The Protection Project to organize and lead the U.S. Mid-Term Review on the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children in America, in preparation for the 2008 World Congress. Shared Hope’s efforts on the Mid-Term Review produced a report on the commercial sexual exploitation of American children, which was delivered in person to the World Congress III, making it available to policy-makers at the highest level.

     Following a two year research project into the demand fueling the international criminal trafficking markets, Shared Hope was began researching the scope and response to child sex trafficking in America, known as Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking (DMST). With assistance of funding from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Shared Hope focused its attention intensely on researching child sex trafficking in eleven specific American locations. The findings from these reports provided recommendations  to the DOJ-funded Human Trafficking Task Forces which proposed policy changes, protocol development, and system modifications that can prevent, rescue and restore America’s victimized children.

Shared Hope’s Strategy

     The strategy is clear. PREVENTION includes proper victim identification enhanced by public awareness and training of those who interact with the vulnerable population of Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking victims. The implementation of strong legislation that criminalizes traffickers/pimps and buyers while protecting victims, in addition to PROSECUTIONS resulting in convictions with appropriate sentences are critical. Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking victims require PROTECTION, including protective safe homes and tailored services that rescue and restore while removing the child from the control of the trafficker/pimp. Shared Hope International’s efforts in these areas are producing visible results, but the battle is ongoing.