Trafficking in Persons: Prevention and Mitigation I

April 23-27, 2025

International delegates from Bangladesh, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Fiji, Finland, Lithuania, Mauritius, North Macedonia, and Vietnam visited San Antonio to explore strategies for preventing child exploitation and human trafficking. The group, composed of professionals in law enforcement, victim support, and crime prevention, engaged with local organizations to learn about comprehensive approaches to protecting vulnerable populations.

Delegates met with Dr. Angie White, President & CEO of Child Advocates San Antonio (CASA), to understand how the organization supports children who have experienced abuse and trafficking. Conversations with CASA’s staff and volunteer advocates highlighted their role in assisting courts, social workers, and providing critical support to children in need.

At Family Violence Prevention Services, the delegates toured the facility and learned about programs supporting women and children who are survivors of domestic violence and sex crimes. Meetings with Marta Peláez, President & CEO, emphasized the organization’s shelter operations and survivor services.

The group also met with Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar to discuss the sheriff’s office’s responsibilities, specialized units, and collaborative efforts with other agencies to combat human trafficking. The visit concluded with a hands-on experience at the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD), where delegates participated in ride-alongs to observe law enforcement operations in action.