Human Trafficking in India: A Complex Problem and How Work of Worth Fits into the Solution
Empowerment Over Exploitation: How Artisan Jobs Help End Human Trafficking in India
India faces a staggering challenge when it comes to human trafficking and modern slavery.
According to the 2023 Global Slavery Index, an estimated 11 million people in India were living in conditions of forced labour or forced marriage in 2021. Walk Free+1 The region of South Asia, which includes India, accounts for the largest number of people in modern slavery , about 59% of the global total. Walk Free
It’s difficult not to feel powerless in the face of such overwhelming figures. But even against this bleak backdrop, there are glimmers of hope , and possibilities for lasting change.
Why Fair Trade Jobs and Artisan Empowerment Matter
At the heart of human trafficking lies vulnerability: poverty, lack of opportunity, and few choices. By creating economic empowerment and delivering skill development, organizations can address the root causes of trafficking and forced labour. For example, the NGO International Justice Mission documented an 82% reduction in bonded-labour prevalence in a region of Tamil Nadu after implementing targeted interventions. ijm.org
That’s where our mission at Work of Worth comes in. In India, we partner with artisan-businesses that train and hire individuals at risk of exploitation, especially women and marginalized groups, providing fair-trade jobs, income stability, and a sense of dignity.
Elevating Women & Shifting Social Norms
Economic empowerment is critical, but change must also come through culture and community. Many of our Indian partners hire women in artisan craft roles, challenging gender inequality and reducing vulnerability to trafficking. By giving women leadership in craft, income, and creative spaces, we help shift social norms and build empowerment from the ground up.
Jobs with Care: Supporting Survivors & Families
Our commitment goes beyond employment. Some artisan-partners offer supportive services, counselling, safe spaces, healthcare, for survivors of trafficking. These aren’t just jobs; they’re opportunities for healing, hope and homecoming. When a survivor earns a fair wage and regains agency, the ripple effect reaches entire families and communities.
Tell the Story, Share the Hope
Every item on the Work of Worth site is more than just handcrafted, it’s a story of resilience, choice, and transformation. When you purchase fair-trade artisan goods, you’re not only buying beautifully made jewelry, textiles or home décor, you’re standing behind artisan empowerment, ethical employment, and sustainable livelihoods in India.
We believe that one handmade job can spark generational change. One artisan empowered means one community strengthened. One purchase becomes one vote for dignity.
Shop with Purpose
Ready to make an impact? Explore our Indian-artisan collection at WorkofWorth.org and know your purchase matters.
✨ Handmade. Fair trade. Empowerment through craft. ✨