In a groundbreaking initiative to tackle the global human trafficking crisis, Atlas Free brought together over 40 organizations from 26 countries fighting human trafficking into one room in Spain last week. This critical gathering marks a pivotal step forward in the ongoing battle against this multi-billion-dollar criminal enterprise affecting over 27 million people today.

"To truly outwork, outpace, and out-strategize traffickers, unity is non-negotiable. Every leader in the room, every individual in the Atlas Free Network—from survivors turned leaders to frontline dreamers ending sex trafficking—deserves the resources, community, and unwavering support to dismantle traffickers in their region. That’s why Atlas Free exists,” said Atlas Free's CEO & President, Jeremy Vallerand. 

The Atlas Free Global Gathering equipped frontline leaders with the tools they needed to combat traffickers effectively and fostered collaboration toward innovative methods of tackling the problem. Sessions led by experienced Atlas Free advisors, leaders, and trafficking survivors focused on trends, best practices, and organizational resilience, addressing critical areas such as finance, leadership, and measurement. 

Regional leaders shared a sense of relief and renewal: “I am not alone in my thoughts about this work,” and, “It’s the kind of work that requires coming together.” 

Former US Ambassador of Trafficking in Persons and Atlas Free's Chief Impact Officer, John Richmond, emphasized the significance of the event: "Atlas Free has responded to the urgent call for genuine collaboration and interconnected leadership. This gathering wasn't just a meeting; it was about collective action, not circular conversations."

Amidst alarming human trafficking statistics—with prosecutions down and profits up—Atlas Free has risen to the challenge, leading the charge for unity to make a tangible impact. As global profits from human trafficking soar to $236 billion, surpassing corporate giants like Walmart and Amazon, the need for strategic unity has never been more critical (Source: International Labour Organization 2022).

"Atlas Free’s work has never been about us. It’s always been about connecting the best local leaders to better resources, tools, and one another to bring justice and freedom to the one who needs it now,” said Callie Tybur, Atlas Free's Chief Operating Officer.

Atlas Free continues its mission to combat human trafficking through strategic collaboration and collective action on the local level. Founded in 2012, Atlas Free Network Members have served over one million lives and remain dedicated to serving millions more.