In the battle against human trafficking, one question stands out: Can you solve a problem that you cannot quantify?

The answer is a resounding no. To effectively combat human trafficking in all its forms—whether labor trafficking, sex trafficking, or any other type—we must first understand the scope and nature of the problem. This is where data becomes not just important, but essential.

Human trafficking is a complex and multifaceted issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Estimates suggest that nearly 3,000,000 individuals are trafficked in the United States each year. Yet, in a quick online search, other sources state 20,000 to 30,000 people each year. Everyone active in eradicating trafficking will tell you the 3,000,000 is more accurate than the 30,000. With these numbers varying so widely, it can make it difficult to grasp the full extent of the crisis. Without accurate data, our efforts to combat trafficking are akin to fighting in the dark.

At Allies Against Slavery, we understand that data is the key to unlocking solutions. Our Lighthouse platform is designed to provide the critical information needed to identify, analyze, and predict human trafficking patterns. By leveraging advanced data analytics, we can aggregate data from various sources to create a comprehensive picture of trafficking activities.

This is the first step in developing a national database to help screen for, prevent, prosecute and create laws that attack trafficking every step of the way. Nearly nine in ten individuals who were trafficked came into contact with an educator, service provider, medical professional, or law enforcement official while they were being trafficked. This means that the potential to identify and assist victims is immense—if we have the right information at our disposal. Data empowers those on the front lines to act swiftly and effectively, turning victims into survivors and bringing traffickers to justice.

Lighthouse is more than just a tool; it is a lifeline for those dedicated to eradicating human trafficking. By providing real-time data and insights, we enable law enforcement agencies, service providers, NGOs, and policymakers to make informed decisions. This collaborative approach ensures that we are not working in silos but are united in our efforts to combat trafficking.

Moreover, the creation of a national database through Lighthouse that can aggregate and share data with other organizations for strong partnerships is a critical step in our collective fight. This platform allows for unprecedented collaboration and information sharing, making it possible to develop more effective strategies to identify, prosecute, and prevent trafficking. By centralizing and analyzing data, the antitrafficking movement can better understand the patterns and networks involved in trafficking, leading to more targeted and successful interventions and improved laws and information to aid in convictions.

Like Bloomberg has done for the financial community, Allies’ Lighthouse can become the “go-to” data source to make critical and timely decisions. Every industry has benefited from data in the last two decades - CRMs have given sales and marketing teams data to improve revenue and retention; ERP systems have delivered data and insights to make businesses more efficient and effective.  Data and platforms like Lighthouse are not just tools; they are exposing the foundational data upon which we build our strategies and solutions. Without it, the antitrafficking movement cannot hope to quantify the problem, let alone solve it. At Allies Against Slavery, we are committed to harnessing the power of data to drive impactful change. Together, with the right information and a united front, we can turn the tide against human trafficking and create a world where every victim becomes a survivor.