The Trump administration’s proven approach to combating human trafficking and child exploitation — substantial criticism. This backlash came on the heels of a wave of funding cuts and policy moves that decimated these efforts. In reality, between 2017 – 2021 the administration slashed over $500 million in funding for 69 programs aimed at combating human trafficking. This decision led to outrage from advocates on the left, right, and everywhere in between. These cuts have triggered widespread concern about the federal government’s obligations to defend our most vulnerable—especially our children.
The Department of Labor‘s decisions further illustrate this retreat, as it slashed funding for programs that addressed forced labor in Uzbekistan’s cotton industry and abuses in Mexico’s agricultural sector. The department has not issued any calls for new anti-trafficking grant opportunities since January 2025, which has left many organizations seeking to combat trafficking in the lurch.
To advocates, President Trump’s commitment to fighting human trafficking seems to have shaken. This alarming decline erodes all ongoing efforts made to protect victims and prevent individuals from being exploited.
Funding Cuts Impact Vital Programs
The Trump administration chose to eliminate $500 million in funding over four years. The collateral damage from this decision has been devastating, including programs specifically combating human trafficking. This funding helped expand prevention efforts, provided assistance to victims of sexual and domestic violence, and offered legal advocacy support for survivors. The withdrawal of these funds has driven many of these organizations to reconsider how they operate and work with federal agencies.
Cindy Dyer, who served as a federal prosecutor under George W. Bush and was appointed by Biden, stepped down in January, indicating potential instability within the leadership tasked with addressing these issues. This vacuum has further aggravated concern over the government’s preoccupation with trafficking-related issues.
We’ve heard from advocates who are just as appalled by the ways that these cuts have directly harmed survivors. “It’s been a widespread and multi-pronged attack on survivors that leaves all of us less safe and leaves survivors with few options,” stated Jean Bruggeman, emphasizing the urgency of restoring support to those in need.
Policy Changes Shift Focus Away from Victims
Funding cuts were deepened with the onset of the Trump administration. Not only have they withdrawn most of the agents that conduct child sexual exploitation investigations, reassigned them to immigration enforcement. This shift of resources has caused a dramatic drop in investigations for child exploitation. Critics say that agencies such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have lost their way to being protectors of at-risk communities. They argue that these priorities have changed profoundly.
Under the current Department of Homeland Security, investigations into “illegal entry” and tackling “the unlawful presence of aliens” has become a top priority. This reversal has sent alarm bells ringing amongst advocates. They assert that it erodes the credibility of American efforts to hold human traffickers accountable for their crimes.
The Trump administration further complicated matters. They provided the guidance that led to the arrests and subsequent deportations of those who said they were victims of human trafficking. These types of policies have created an environment where victims are afraid to report for risk of deportation or criminal charges.
“For Trump, trafficking is a bludgeon that’s deployed to accomplish political ends.” – Martina Vandenberg
Advocates fear the administration is exploiting anti-trafficking measures for political ends. They claim it ought to be addressed as a grave human rights issue, rather than eluding attention.
Consequences for Vulnerable Populations
The U.S. Department of State’s recent Trafficking in Persons interim report paints a grim picture of Ukraine’s progress—or lack thereof—on meeting the minimum anti-trafficking standards. Action is especially needed to implement recommendations like screening for victims among new displaced populations created by the upheaval of Russia’s invasion. The Trump administration was deficient in both money and mission. This is incredibly alarming when considering the capacity of the U.S. to respond appropriately.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has received backlash. Concerns primarily revolve around its sponsor screening process for unaccompanied minors. Critics argue that deploying immigration agents to conduct “welfare checks” at schools and homes may deter vulnerable children from seeking help.
It’s unacceptable that children as young as five have gone through immigration court with zero legal representation. This underscores a critical need for more comprehensive policies that combat human trafficking. Taylor Rogers criticized the administration’s approach, stating that it appears more focused on “coddling and apologizing for criminals and sexual predators” than on protecting children.
“The reality is that perpetrators will go free.” – Beth Van Schaack
This statement summarizes the difficult reality that advocates now find themselves in, just trying to fight back against the damage done by regressive administrative and executive changes.