HHS Announces New Initiatives to Prevent Violence Against Children Following Global Conference

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), along with the U.S. Agency for International Development, recently represented the United States in the inaugural Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children , convened by the Colombian government with support from Sweden, UNICEF, the World Health Organization, and the United Nations. This landmark event brought together government representatives, survivors, and other experts from around the globe to address the critical issue of violence against children in all its forms. 

In alignment with the vision articulated at the conference, HHS through the Administration for Children and Families’ Office of Trafficking in Persons is announcing the formation of the National Advisory Committee on the Trafficking of Children and Youth in the United States. 

“Children should grow up safe, supported, and free from fear, violence, and abuse,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. “To build on this momentum, we are proud to announce the National Advisory Committee on the Trafficking of Children and Youth in the United States. This committee will support local and national efforts to prevent child sex and labor trafficking.”

The committee, made up of individuals with lived experience, government officials, and professionals with expertise in child trafficking prevention and response, will provide guidance on policies and programs aimed at preventing and responding to child trafficking. The committee will deliver its recommendations to government agencies at all levels and across sectors to ensure a unified, effective response to child trafficking in the United States.

“Children deserve to live free from any form of violence or exploitation.  Protecting children requires a collective effort across all sectors.” said ACF Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Meg Sullivan. “HHS is committed to listening, understanding unique needs, and providing resources needed to support vital work in protecting and safeguarding our youth.”

HHS is also engaging with stakeholders to address the increasing threat of online harassment and abuse. In an effort to better understand these challenges, the agency will host a listening session addressing the intersections of online image-based sexual abuse with mental health, domestic violence, human trafficking, and child abuse. This session will include perspectives from individuals with lived experience, service providers, and researchers. 

Additionally, HHS continues to release resources to support those working to protect children and youth in their communities:

• Training and Technical Assistance Resources: In response to requests from local communities, ACF provides information, training, and technical assistance to support children and youth who are at-risk or experiencing human trafficking. 
• Look Beneath the Surface Campaign: This campaign includes new outreach materials developed in collaboration with individuals with lived experience, featuring posters, pocket cards, and a public service announcement in English and Spanish that will be distributed in communities across the country.

HHS remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting children and youth from violence and exploitation. These initiatives mark an important step forward in enhancing the nation’s efforts to safeguard its most vulnerable populations.

For more information about HHS’ initiatives and resources, please visit acf.hhs.gov/endtrafficking.

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