One industry, one guide, one action at a time.

Human trafficking is one of the most urgent human rights crises of our time. More than 40 million people worldwide are trapped in modern slavery—whether through forced labor, sexual exploitation, or coercion—generating over $150 billion annually in illicit profits (UNODC, 2024). And shockingly, this crime isn’t limited to far-flung places: it’s happening in cities, airports, hotels, and tourist hubs around the globe—including right here in the United States.

At ITMI, we believe that every travel professional has the power and responsibility to contribute to the solution.

Airline Ambassadors International: A Key Partner in the Fight Against Trafficking

Airline Ambassadors is a leading non-profit organization that has trained over 10,000 airline and travel professionals worldwide to recognize trafficking in real-world environments.

They’ve partnered with ITMI and other ethical tourism organizations to deliver trafficking awareness sessions at major hubs, including:

• U.S. airports like DFW, LAX, and JFK
• International forums and conferences
• In-the-field training for humanitarian and tourism workers

Their program emphasizes situational awareness, safety in reporting, and survivor sensitivity—principles now embedded in ITMI’s training as well.

Learn more: Airline Ambassadors Trafficking Awareness Program

Why Tour Guides Are Uniquely Positioned to Make a Difference

With over 1 billion international travelers each year, the tourism industry is in a prime position to spot red flags. Tour directors and guides work closely with guests, transport hubs, hotels, and local businesses—places where trafficking victims often pass unnoticed.

By training tour professionals to recognize the signs and act safely and effectively, we create a powerful frontline defense against exploitation.

About ITMI’s Groundbreaking Human Trafficking Course

ITMI was the first tour director certification school to embed anti-trafficking education directly into its curriculum—a distinction we’re incredibly proud of.

Our specialized e-course—designed specifically for travel and tourism professionals—covers:

• The global scope of human trafficking today
• Vulnerable populations most at risk
• Methods traffickers use to recruit, control, and exploit victims
• Red flags every guide should recognize
• Safe and effective ways to respond and report concerns
• Best practices for companies to embed anti-trafficking policies in their operations

This isn’t just theory—it’s actionable, practical training.

Real Impact: ITMI Graduates Saving Lives

This program isn’t just about awareness—it’s about action. Since integrating anti-trafficking training into our core curriculum, ITMI graduates have already helped save 8 children from trafficking situations.

Yes, eight lives saved—because tour guides were alert, informed, and courageous.

These aren’t abstract numbers. They’re children who now have a second chance at life, thanks to vigilant travel professionals who were trained to see what others might miss.

Why This Matters Now More Than Ever

Recent reports (Polaris, 2025) confirm that trafficking has surged in post-pandemic travel corridors, with new methods including online grooming and exploitation in seemingly “safe” tourist areas.

Travel professionals must be more vigilant than ever—and prepared to act.

By joining ITMI’s training, you become part of a global movement committed to:

Protecting vulnerable people
Upholding human dignity
Building a safer, more ethical travel industry

What Alumni Are Saying

“I never imagined I’d be in a position to help save someone’s life. Thanks to ITMI’s training, I spotted something that didn’t seem right—and reported it safely. Knowing I helped a child escape danger is the most meaningful part of my entire career.”
— ITMI Alum, 2023 Graduate

Join Us: Be Part of the Solution

This issue is too urgent—and too close to home—to ignore. Whether you’re a tour director, travel planner, or part of a tourism organization, you can make a real difference.

Together, we can protect human rights, uphold dignity, and end trafficking—one trained professional at a time.