As Atlanta prepares to welcome the world for the FIFA World Cup, city leaders, advocates, law enforcement agencies, survivors, and community organizations gathered Monday for the ATL Anti Human Trafficking Summit at the Georgia International Convention Center.
Hosted in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Violence Reduction and regional anti trafficking partners, the summit focused on awareness, prevention, survivor support, and coordinated action ahead of one of the world’s largest global sporting events.
More than 300 attendees representing the airport community, hospitality industry, transportation providers, nonprofit organizations, educators, and law enforcement agencies participated in the day long event.
Mayor Andre Dickens addressed attendees during the luncheon and general session, emphasizing Atlanta’s commitment to safety as the city prepares for increased global travel and international attention.
“Being the busiest airport in the world brings a certain responsibility,” said Mayor Dickens. “We know that the fact that ATL is a global gateway makes it possible for human trafficking to hide in plain sight here. We don’t accept that though.”
The Mayor noted that Atlanta’s anti trafficking efforts began long before FIFA preparations and continue to involve strong partnerships across sectors and agencies.
The summit highlighted ongoing work led by the Mayor’s Office of Violence Reduction in partnership with the Atlanta Alliance Against Trafficking Taskforce, including collaboration with law enforcement, service providers, survivor advocates, and community organizations.
Last month, the City of Atlanta joined the international “It’s a Penalty” campaign, which uses major sporting events and sports platforms to raise awareness about human trafficking and exploitation. The campaign helps educate the public on how to recognize warning signs, report concerns, and connect individuals with resources and support.
In addition to awareness campaigns, the city has expanded training and outreach efforts for hotel staff, contract security teams, shelter providers, youth serving organizations, and frontline workers who may encounter trafficking situations.
During the summit, attendees also viewed FIFA human trafficking awareness videos and participated in “The Human Cost: Voices from the Shadows,” an immersive testimonial experience featuring survivor stories and personal journeys connected to the realities of human trafficking.
Mayor Dickens thanked advocates, educators, service providers, and law enforcement partners for their ongoing work and called on residents and visitors alike to remain alert and engaged.
“Human trafficking has no place in Atlanta,” Mayor Dickens said. “Being a global city carries a global responsibility. We are committed to safety and security, through the World Cup games and beyond.”
The summit is part of Atlanta’s broader FIFA readiness efforts focused on public safety, transportation, hospitality, community preparedness, and visitor experience as the city prepares to host visitors from around the world.
