Freedom in Disasters (FiD) has officially launched the International Standard for Counter-Trafficking in Disasters and Humanitarian Crises, marking a landmark achievement in global efforts to prevent human trafficking in times of crisis.
Unveiled in Kathmandu, Nepal, as part of Global Action for Freedom 2026, the launch brought together humanitarian organisations, counter-trafficking practitioners, advocates, and international partners. The event signalled a critical transition from years of development and consultation to global adoption and implementation.
The Standard is the first comprehensive international framework designed specifically to address trafficking risks that emerge during disasters and humanitarian crises. It provides practical, field-ready guidance to support coordinated, survivor-centred, and rights-based responses across all phases of humanitarian action.
The launch event commenced with a high tea, fostering connection and collaboration among stakeholders, followed by a keynote address from Ms. Charimaya Tamang, a globally recognised anti-trafficking advocate and award recipient. Her strong support for the Standard underscored its importance and reinforced the urgent need to integrate counter-trafficking measures into disaster response systems.
A panel discussion featuring leading voices from Nepal’s counter-trafficking and humanitarian sectors explored the complex relationship between disasters and trafficking, highlighting implementation challenges and opportunities for strengthened coordination and legislative reform.
Prior, FiD convened a Practitioner Implementation Workshop, bringing together subject matter experts and frontline responders to translate the Standard into real-world application. Participants worked collaboratively to co-design elements of a practitioner toolkit and explore approaches to trafficking risk intelligence, ensuring that the framework is both practical and adaptable across diverse operational contexts.
The International Standard outlines core principles, minimum requirements, and sector-specific actions to guide prevention and response efforts. It emphasises early risk analysis, safe identification and referral, survivor assistance, data protection, and meaningful community engagement, while promoting integration across sectors including health, shelter, child protection, and livelihoods.
Reflecting on the significance of the launch, FiD Board Chair and Co-Founder Matt Dorfstaetter said:
“After years of collaboration with partners and practitioners, this launch represents a major step forward. The International Standard gives us, for the first time, a shared and practical framework to prevent trafficking in disaster contexts. It is the result of collective effort, and its impact will depend on continued collaboration as we move into implementation.”
The success of the launch and workshop reflects the dedication of the many organisations, practitioners, and partners who have contributed over the years. Their expertise and commitment have shaped a Standard that is both globally relevant and grounded in real-world experience.
The International Standard is now live and accessible online here, supporting organisations and governments worldwide to strengthen their efforts in preventing human trafficking in disaster contexts.
Freedom in Disasters extends its sincere thanks to all those who have contributed to this journey. This milestone is a shared achievement—and a foundation for continued global action.