From Bystanders to Upstanders: A Multi-level Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking in Hospitality

Authors

Aili Wu, University of Central Florida, Rosen College of Hospitality ManagementFollow
Wei Wei, University of Central Florida, Rosen College of Hospitality ManagementFollow
Lu Zhang, Michigan State University, Broad College of BusinessFollow

Author ORCID Identifier

Aili Wu: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3794-4892

Wei Wei: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5527-2746

Lu Zhang: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7408-193X

Executive Summary

Human trafficking, a prevalent hidden crime, continues to be a pressing concern in the hospitality industry. However, the effectiveness of existing anti-human trafficking programs in improving employee response behaviors remains unknown. This report evaluates the effectiveness of training messages to capture hospitality employees’ attention, facilitating empathy and willingness to help the victims. It further explores the facilitators and barriers influencing employees’ responses to human trafficking after training. The findings from this report provide a practical guide for hospitality practitioners to develop and refine ongoing training programs, strengthening employees’ commitment to combating human trafficking. Beyond general training, this report offers a comprehensive framework for pre-, during-, and post-incident protocols through a multi-level approach that integrates individual, company, and societal and legal perspectives for anti-human trafficking interventions. This report offers a foundational roadmap for hospitality practitioners to drive meaningful change in the global fight against human trafficking.

Recommended Citation

Wu, Aili; Wei, Wei; and Zhang, Lu (2025) "From Bystanders to Upstanders: A Multi-level Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking in Hospitality," ICHRIE Research Reports: Vol. 10: Iss. 3, Article 5.
DOI: www.doi.org/10.61701/812917.869
Available at: https://via.library.depaul.edu/ichrie_rr/vol10/iss3/5