The Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking launched their first report

On April 8th, 2025, I had the honor of joining the Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City for the launch of our first report. This moment marked a powerful step forward in our shared mission to expose and end the systems that allow modern slavery and human trafficking to persist. During the launch, commissioners, survivors, and contributors came together to share key findings and personal reflections on the report’s content. It was a deeply meaningful experience to see so many leaders, policymakers, and change makers united by one purpose: to restore humanity, dignity, and justice to those who have long been silenced.

My Journey with the Global Commission

In 2024, I was appointed as a Commissioner to the Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking an initiative led by former UK Prime Minister Theresa May. The Commission seeks to reignite global momentum toward achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 8.7, which calls for the eradication of all forms of modern slavery and human trafficking by 2030.

As a survivor and advocate, I bring a lived-experience perspective to the Commission’s work. My role is to ensure that survivor voices are not just heard but are central to every policy, every decision, and every global conversation. Through my involvement, I continue to advance the mission of Empowerment Collective by:

• Advocating for survivor-informed policies, where those directly impacted shape the solutions.

• Promoting global collaboration, working alongside international leaders to align our efforts and amplify impact.

• Advancing research and awareness, ensuring that data and storytelling together drive meaningful, lasting change.

My appointment reflects a shared commitment: to build a world where freedom and dignity are fundamental rights for all — not privileges for a few.

Press and Global Reflections

The report launch drew coverage from major international media and academic institutions, including Forbes, CNN, BBC, and the University of Oxford. Their stories echoed a growing recognition that modern slavery is not isolated — it’s deeply connected to climate change, conflict, and the choices we make as consumers.

As I shared during my remarks:

“Faceless casualties are generated every day through the purchasing decisions of unconscious consumption, and the blind eyes of a global economic system that cannot be separated from our supply chains.”

I continue to call on governments, businesses, and individuals alike to prioritize transparency, address root vulnerabilities, and value survivor insight — to set a new global standard for how we respond to modern slavery.

This launch was more than an event — it was a reminder that change begins when we unveil the truth and choose to act with conscience.

Together, we can build an economy of compassion, transparency, and justice.

Thank you,

Nasreen

Read the full report here: https://www.modernslaverycommission.org/report/

Watch a segment of the report launch: https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1o/k1o8g9ima7