Human trafficking does not stop by itself. Stay alert. Report the signs
Today, 18 October 2025, is the Day Against Human Trafficking. It’s an important day on which the European Netherlands draws attention to a serious problem that also occurs on Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba: human trafficking.
The message is clear: human trafficking does not end after today. The exploitation of people happens all year round, often hidden and closer than we think. That’s why it’s important for everyone to stay alert to the signs and to report it if something doesn’t feel right.
What is human trafficking?
Human trafficking means someone is exploited against their will. This can happen in different ways:
- Labour exploitation – for example, someone working long hours without pay.
- Sexual exploitation – someone is forced to perform sexual acts.
- Criminal exploitation – especially young people are used to commit crimes, such as transporting drugs or stealing.
Victims often do not dare to ask for help themselves. That is exactly why it is important for bystanders to learn to recognize the signs.
Ongoing attention
In the week before 18 October, extra attention was given to this topic on all three islands. Through radio spots, social media, and broadcasts of the radio programme Keda Informá (Bonaire) and Stay Informed (Saba, St. Eustatius), the call was made clear: recognize the signs and report them. This campaign is part of the ongoing programme against human trafficking. The attention does not stop after 18 October. Human trafficking is not a one-time problem. Staying alert and reporting is important throughout the year, according to the cooperating partners: KPCN, IND CN, Royal Netherlands Marechaussee and RIEC CN.
In doubt? Report anyway
You can report safely and anonymously. You don’t have to be certain it is human trafficking. A suspicion can already be enough to start help. Your report can make a difference for someone who sees no way out.
You can report via the KPCN anonymous tip line: 9310 or by email: meldmensenhandel@politiecn.com. For more information, visit www.rijksdienstcn.com
Only together with the community we can stop human trafficking. Together against human trafficking. Our islands, our responsibility.
