Report

Modern slavery: A global crisis with local consequences

This report from UK think tank the Coalition for Global Prosperity analyses the UK’s Modern Slavery Act 2015 a decade after its implementation.

This report from the Coalition for Global Prosperity analyses the UK’s Modern Slavery Act 2015 a decade after its implementation. While initially a landmark piece of legislation, the report argues that its effectiveness has been hindered by low prosecution rates, inconsistent victim support, and weak corporate accountability in supply chains. The report highlights several factors contributing to modern slavery, including global instability, conflict-driven displacement, economic hardship, and the misuse of online platforms for recruitment. It details different forms of exploitation covered by the Act, such as domestic, labor, sexual, and criminal exploitation, noting the increasing trend of exploitation through emerging technologies like scam operations. A key focus is the challenges in identifying and supporting victims, citing distrust in authorities, “invisible chains” imposed by traffickers, and a lack of proper training for first responders.

The report also discusses how recent immigration legislation has complicated efforts to address modern slavery by conflating it with immigration control. The report concludes with six recommendations for updating the UK’s approach: Review the UK’s Modern Slavery Strategy. Strengthen business accountability in supply chains. Restore the Modern Slavery Fund. Align Home Office and Foreign Office priorities. Reduce exploitation risks in immigration policies. Enhance law enforcement and prosecution efforts.