Mexico’s human trafficking survivors have a message for World Cup fans

Mexico’s Human Trafficking Survivors Warn Against Underestimating World Cup Risks

Mexico s human trafficking survivors have – In the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, concerns are mounting among activists and survivors of human trafficking in Mexico about the potential surge in exploitation linked to the global event. As the tournament prepares to draw millions of visitors, the risk of trafficking networks capitalizing on the influx of tourists has become a focal point for advocacy groups and government agencies. Survivors like Karla Jacinto and Mixi Cruz share harrowing accounts of their experiences, offering a personal lens on the challenges that lie ahead.

A Personal Story of Powerlessness

Karla Jacinto, now in her early 30s, recounts being trafficked at the age of 12. She recalls the first day she was sold to clients in Guadalajara, where she felt overwhelmed by the silence of those around her. “I cried, I screamed, I begged for help, and nobody listened to me until it got to the point where my feelings started to shut down,” Jacinto explained. “At that moment, all I did was close my eyes after seeing the first client, the second, the third, until they became tens.” Her journey began when a 22-year-old promised her love and a fairy-tale life, luring her away from the abuse she endured in her childhood. What followed was four years of prostitution, marked by relentless exploitation.

“By the time I escaped at age 16, I had been raped tens of thousands of times,” Jacinto said, her voice steady but laced with emotion. “The World Cup is a reminder that even in a country we call home, the shadows of trafficking can stretch far.”

The Rise of Trafficking During Sporting Events

Survivors are sounding the alarm about how the World Cup might amplify the demand for prostitution. Mixi Cruz, who was trafficked at 15 in Mexico City, shared her experience, stating that during the time her trafficker exploited her, there was a noticeable uptick in the number of clients seeking sexual services. “I can tell you from my own experience that during sporting events, the demand for prostitution increases dramatically,” Cruz emphasized. Her story is part of a broader narrative, as the Mexican capital—alongside Guadalajara and Monterrey—hosts 13 of the tournament’s matches.

The Mexican government, aware of these risks, has partnered with NGOs and the private sector to enhance reporting mechanisms for sex trafficking during the event. Yet, despite these efforts, the sheer magnitude of the World Cup’s scale—projected to attract millions of visitors—poses a significant challenge for law enforcement. “The truth is that Mexico is not currently prepared to host a World Cup,” Cruz stated, accusing officials of neglecting the issue.

Global Concerns and Multi-Agency Collaboration

Similar worries have been raised by UNICEF, the U.S. and Mexican governments, as well as private companies and rights organizations. These groups have collaborated on initiatives like “It’s a Penalty” and “World Cup Without Trafficking,” aiming to raise awareness and combat the trade. While these campaigns have made strides in educating the public, the question remains: how effective are they in preventing exploitation?

According to the 2025 Global Organized Crime Index, human trafficking—particularly for sexual and labor exploitation—is rapidly becoming one of the most profitable criminal enterprises in Mexico. Gangs such as the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and the Sinaloa Cartel are expanding into this market, leveraging its potential for high returns. The report ranks trafficking as the third-largest criminal activity in the country, trailing only drug and gun trades.

Underreporting and Systemic Challenges

Despite official data showing a 124% increase in human trafficking victims—rising from 537 in 2017 to 1,154 in 2025—survivors argue the numbers barely scratch the surface. Gabriela González García, director general of the Citizens’ Council for Security and Justice in Mexico City, estimates that only about 2% of trafficking cases are ever reported to authorities. This underreporting stems from fear, trauma, and the lack of trust in legal systems that often fail to protect victims.

Activists like Jacinto and Cruz stress that even when survivors manage to escape, they are hesitant to pursue justice. “Once you’re in the system, you’re seen as a problem, not a victim,” said one advocate, highlighting the systemic barriers that prevent survivors from seeking help. Corruption and impunity within the government further exacerbate the issue, with critics claiming that officials are more focused on maintaining stability than addressing the root causes of trafficking.

Legal Framework and Red-Light Districts

Thirteen Mexican states have laws allowing and regulating adult prostitution, which critics argue creates an environment where traffickers can operate with relative ease. These regulations, while intended to support legal sex work, are often exploited to mask the trafficking of minors and vulnerable adults. “The legal framework provides a cover for criminals to traffic victims in plain sight,” noted an expert, pointing to the country’s thriving red-light districts as breeding grounds for exploitation.

CNN recently conducted a tour of four such districts with Indira Villegas, senior technical adviser at The Mekong Club—a Hong Kong-based NGO combating forced labor and modern slavery. During the visit, dozens of sex workers were observed working in high-traffic areas, underscoring the prevalence of the trade. Villegas highlighted that these districts are not just hubs for adult entertainment but also hotspots for trafficking, where victims are often coerced into work without awareness of their rights.

A Call for Action and Awareness

As the World Cup approaches, survivors and advocates urge a multi-pronged approach to combat trafficking. This includes stricter monitoring of tourist areas, better training for law enforcement, and increased support for victims. “The World Cup is a platform that can either shine a light on this issue or be used to hide it,” Jacinto said. She emphasizes that the tournament offers an opportunity to highlight the plight of trafficking survivors and demand accountability from authorities.

While the Mexican government insists it is taking measures to crack down on trafficking, activists remain skeptical. They argue that without substantial reforms, the tournament could become a catalyst for increased exploitation. “Until we see real action, we will continue to fear for our safety,” Cruz stated, echoing the sentiments of many who have experienced the trauma of being trafficked.

With the World Cup set to begin, the focus is shifting from merely preventing crime to ensuring the safety of those most at risk. Survivors like Jacinto and Cruz are not just sharing their stories—they are advocating for systemic change, urging governments and organizations to prioritize human rights over economic gains. Their voices, though often overlooked, carry a powerful message: the tournament’s success must not come at the expense of vulnerable individuals.