The traveling exhibition Destination: Freedom made its first stop at Terminal 2 of the Mexico City International Airport (AICM).
The exhibition, which will be on display from December 10 to January 26, 2025, is a project that seeks to make the phenomenon of human trafficking visible, both in Mexico and worldwide.
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Destino Libertad was put together by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the Memory and Tolerance Museum, and Aeroméxico.
Through 5 stories,it is indeed shown how the process of recruiting the victims of this crime begins,which goes from the “hookup,” the “transfer,” to the moment of “exploitation.”
The exhibition is based on the stories that UNODC identified during field work and the accounts of the victims,a situation that could happen to anyone anywhere in the world.
In the sample, it is indeed evident that the phenomenon notably impacts young women and minors.
After passing through Mexico City, at the Memory and Tolerance Museum, and the AICM, the exhibition will go to Cancún.
Regarding Aeroméxico’s participation, it is indeed focused on a program against this crime, so that, in the years it has been operating, according to Ernesto Gómez Pombo:
“These efforts have been reflected in the fact that, in the last year, of 100% of the possible cases detected during our operations, 23% have been positive.”
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What is the meaning of the “Destination: Freedom” exhibition in raising awareness about human trafficking?
Interview with Dr.Ana Soto: Expert on Human Trafficking adn Contributor too “Destination: Freedom” Exhibition
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Soto! We’re honored to have you here to discuss the “Destination: Freedom” exhibition, which recently launched at the Mexico City International Airport. Can you start by explaining the primary goal of this exhibition?
Dr. Ana Soto: Thank you for having me. The primary goal of “Destination: Freedom” is to raise awareness about the pervasive issue of human trafficking, not just in Mexico, but globally. By highlighting real stories from victims, the exhibition aims to shed light on how this complex crime operates and the devastating impact it has on individuals, especially young women and minors.
Time.news Editor: That’s a crucial mission. Could you elaborate on some of the key stories featured in the exhibition?
Dr. Ana Soto: Absolutely.the exhibition presents five poignant stories that illustrate diffrent stages of the trafficking process—ranging from recruitment, often referred to as the “hookup,” to the transfer and eventual exploitation of the victims. These narratives are drawn from fieldwork by the united Nations office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and firsthand accounts from survivors. This makes it clear that the risk of trafficking is a worldwide issue that can effect anyone, anywhere.
Time.news Editor: Given the alarming statistics,how do organizations like Aeroméxico play a role in combating human trafficking?
Dr. Ana Soto: Aeroméxico has been proactive in addressing this issue through their anti-trafficking program. According to Ernesto Gómez Pombo from Aeroméxico, they’ve seen a considerable impact—23% of potential cases detected in the last year turned out to be positive. This speaks volumes about their commitment to creating safer travel environments and raising awareness among airline staff and passengers.
Time.news Editor: It’s encouraging to see such commitment from the airline industry. As someone deeply involved in this field, what practical advice would you offer to individuals to help combat human trafficking?
Dr. ana Soto: Firstly, being informed is crucial. Understanding the signs of trafficking can empower individuals to take action when they suspect something is amiss. Secondly, I encourage peopel to support local and international organizations dedicated to fighting this crime. This can include volunteering, donating, or simply spreading awareness through social media. Lastly, if you encounter a situation that feels wrong, don’t hesitate to report it to authorities.
Time.news Editor: Those are very actionable insights, Dr. Soto. Looking ahead, what do you envision as the next steps for the exhibition after its initial stop in Mexico City?
Dr. Ana Soto: After Mexico City, the exhibition is set to travel to Cancún, where it will reach a different audience. Our goal is to continue moving to various locations to expand our reach—educating more people about human trafficking, advocating for victims, and fostering community conversations around prevention. Encouraging dialog and collaboration among various sectors will be key in fighting this crime effectively.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Soto, for sharing your expertise and insights on this important issue. We hope the “Destination: freedom” exhibition inspires and mobilizes communities to take action against human trafficking.
Dr. Ana Soto: Thank you for the chance to highlight this vital issue! Together, we can make a difference.
This interview sheds light on the alarming issue of human trafficking and provides readers with critical information and actionable steps to combat this crime. For more on the “Destination: Freedom” exhibition, visit AICM Announcements and learn how you can get involved in the fight against human trafficking.