Human trafficking is simultaneously local and global. It is a complex, nexus crime involving cross-border networks that rely on highly localized systems and relationships. Recruitment and control methods are particularly culturally dependent and context-specific. Stakeholders must incorporate knowledge and perspectives from multiple levels to gain an accurate picture of the problem and tailor solutions that simultaneously address individual needs and the international nature of the issue. The Exodus Road is learning the value of incorporating multiple types of knowledge. The presenters will share their experience, both positive and negative, in setting up an International Advisory Board to incorporate voices from lived experience experts, front-line investigators, vulnerable groups such as Indigenous populations, and key global decision-makers. The audience will follow the trajectory of this program’s way of working internationally applying learnings from its inception to its present-day form. Four presenters in a panel format will provide background, problem, proposed solution, and lessons learned when setting up an International Advisory Board to guide global programmatic decisions. Each presenter will focus on a specific issue encountered and how it was overcome, including cross-cultural communications, prioritization, incorporating voices, and recognizing global trends. Practitioners must be able to operate in a highly local way while not missing out on the opportunity to contribute to global learning. Trafficking patterns and technology use are inherently global, not respecting traditional borders or language barriers. The call to action is to incorporate a “zooming in and zooming out” approach while creating communication structures that accommodate voices from critical stakeholders.
Dr. Andrew Hoskins is the Global COO at The Exodus Road, an anti-human trafficking organization based in Colorado. His work and research have focused on the cultural aspect of forced migration and human trafficking. He is author of Leading Multicultural Teams: The First Five Tools for Global Leaders.
Kert Stavorn is a licensed attorney and Director of The Exodus Road’s programs in Thailand. As a member of the indigenous community in southern Thailand, Kert has researched the vulnerabilities to human trafficking that indigenous groups face in the rise of the intelligence revolution.
Cintia Meirelles is Founder of The Exodus Road-Brazil. She has a passion for waking the people of Brazil up to the fact that human trafficking exists in their own backyard. She has been featured in national and international news outlets, highlighting her work on combatting human trafficking and raising awareness.
Fernando Blanco is a decorated former Colombian military officer who now leads The Exodus Road Colombia Foundation. He is proud to say that he used to serve his country, but now he serves humanity through prevention, prosecution, and protection efforts within Colombia.