UK Tackles Modern Slavery Case Backlog Amid Global Crisis
The United Kingdom is addressing a backlog of 23,300 modern slavery cases by recruiting 200 new staff members to resolve the issue within two years, aiming to provide clarity and support to victims. Modern slavery impacts fifty million people globally, with forced labor and marriage prevalent across economic classes, highlighting a rising ten-year trend disproportionately affecting women and children. The UK's new efforts seek to prioritize survivor recovery, addressing delays and mental distress caused by existing systems.
The United Kingdom government has appointed 200 new Home Office personnel to address a backlog of 23,300 modern slavery cases inherited from the previous administration.
This initiative aims to resolve these cases within two years, aiding victims of traumatic abuse.
There has been a prolonged delay in confirming victim status via the national referral mechanism, resulting in uncertainty and mental distress.
Minister for Safeguarding, Jess Phillips, emphasized the need to prioritize survivors and eliminate the backlogs to provide victims with peace of mind.
The International Labour Organisation reports that fifty million individuals were enslaved globally in 2021, with 28 million in forced labor and 22 million in forced marriages.
Over the past decade, the number of enslaved individuals has risen by 10 million, particularly affecting women and children.
Modern slavery is a pervasive issue across countries regardless of their economic status.