Last August, the United Kingdom chose to “opt out” of the EU’s Directive on human trafficking, leaving hundreds of British children at risk.  Now, the aftermath of this questionable decision is rearing its ugly head. According to a recent report by The Independent, trafficking is not being adequately investigated or prosecuted in the UK, due to a lack of education and resources. Not only is the government failing to investigate these cases, but it is notorious for losing them—55% of child trafficking victims who are rescued in the UK eventually go missing. The EU’s directive would give the UK substantially more power to prosecute crimes and protect these victims. So what are Prime Minister David Cameron and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg waiting for? Tell the UK that apathy is not a response to trafficking.  

The Directive specifically focuses on child victims, and would introduce a system of guardianship for trafficked children—reducing the chance that these victims are prosecuted. This would help victims receive the educational, medical and legal support they need. The Directive would also give the UK the power to prosecute cases involving British citizens in other countries. A petition published on this issue by the UK-based advocacy organization, 38 degrees, has already surpassed 15,000 signatures. I think Change.org readers can match that. Send this petition to David Cameron and Nick Clegg, and protect children trafficked in the UK!