This title examines one of the world's critical issues, human trafficking. Readers will learn the historical background of this issue leading up to its current and future impact on society. Various forms of modern slavery including debt bondage, child labor, prostitutes, sex slaves, and child soldiers are discussed in detail, as well as risk factors for trafficking such as poverty, violence, and cultural, traditional, or religious views. Also covered are the physical, psychological, and spiritual impact trafficking survivors experience, laws intended to combat human trafficking, the tier system, and organizations such as the United Nations and UNICEF. Engaging text, informative sidebars, and color photographs present information realistically, leaving readers with a thorough, honest interpretation of human trafficking. Features include a timeline, facts, additional resources, Web sites, a glossary, a bibliography, and an index. Essential Issues is a series in Essential Library, an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.