Press Release
☷HHS Releases Framework to Strengthen National Efforts to Prevent Human Trafficking
Administration for Children and Families ( By Press Release office)
Feb 17,2024
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On February 13 , 2024 , Secretary Xavier Becerra of the U . S . Department of Health and Human Services ( HHS ) attended a meeting for the President ' s Task Force on Combating Trafficking in Persons ( PITF ) . During the meeting , Secretary Becerra announced the HHS National Human Trafficking Prevention Framework , which provides resources for organizations , communities , and governments looking to strengthen their efforts in preventing human trafficking . The framework is based on research , best practices , and input from those who have experienced trafficking and professionals in the field . It serves as a call - to - action for a united effort against trafficking , involving various stakeholders such as government agencies , businesses , nonprofits , educational institutions , and research organizations . Secretary Becerra stated , "The HHS is fully committed to protecting people from trafficking exploitation . We want to stop trafficking before it happens and reduce its impact . With this framework , we can work together with our partners to prevent forced labor and sexual exploitation of individuals . " Human trafficking is a significant issue that affects numerous people in the U . S . and globally . The U . S . has implemented laws to provide greater protection to trafficking survivors and hold traffickers accountable since the passing of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 . Jeff Hild , Acting Assistant Secretary for Children and Families and co - chair of the HHS Task Force to Prevent Human Trafficking , emphasized the importance of a preventive approach that addresses social determinants of health . By ensuring access to stable housing , economic opportunities , and other resources , it becomes more challenging for traffickers to exploit vulnerable individuals . Acting Assistant Secretary Hild encouraged federal agencies and their partners in various sectors to collaborate and put the prevention framework into action . The HHS Prevention Framework takes a comprehensive approach , aiming to prevent human trafficking at all levels of society . Admiral Rachel Levine , Assistant Secretary for Health , emphasized the importance of empowering individuals and communities to protect themselves and each other . She highlighted the need for collaboration to successfully prevent human trafficking and protect families and communities . The framework includes five key principles: fairness and inclusivity , whole - family approaches , evidence - based methods , collaboration across different fields , and focusing on individual needs . It also outlines eight strategies , from improving individual skills to creating societal norms that prevent violence . Each strategy includes suggested activities and potential outcomes .
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