Mission89 and IOM Join Forces to Combat Trafficking in Sports and Protect Aspiring Footballers

In a resolute move to highlight the dangers of irregular migration and trafficking in sports, Mission89 and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) collaborated on a compelling forum aimed at galvanising football academies and administrators about creating a safer environment for aspiring African football talents.

This event, which was held in Lagos to commemorate the World Day against Trafficking, was attended by guests from several football academies, with a focus on taking a meaningful step towards eradicating the exploitation of young athletes and preserving the integrity of the game. At the heart of this endeavour is the inking of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IOM and Mission89, symbolising their unwavering commitment to establishing a new era of accountability and protection within the sports industry.

“Today’s event marks a significant leap forward in our collective mission to combat trafficking in sports,” stated Lerina Bright, Executive Director and Founder, Mission89. “By forging this partnership, we are amplifying our efforts to dismantle the networks that exploit vulnerable young athletes, ensuring that their dreams are nurtured in a safe environment. Together, we will rewrite the narrative and foster an environment where the dreams of aspiring footballers shine brightly”.

The initiative has been a pioneering force in the fight against child trafficking in sports and has long championed education and the enforcement of vital regulations to hold sports training academies responsible for the safety and well-being of young athletes. According to Ms Bright, the understanding is built on a shared vision “to provide a beacon of hope for aspiring footballers while shattering the cycle of exploitation. Through research-driven initiatives and educational programs, we are charting a course toward lasting change.”

While it is challenging to determine the exact number of young footballers trafficked out of Africa every year due to the clandestine nature of human trafficking and the lack of comprehensive data, it is estimated that more than 6,000 young African footballers fall prey to deceptive agents who promise fame, wealth, and an escape from poverty, only to deliver them into a life of exploitation and despair.

“Over the years, we have identified the need to address misinformation and limited knowledge about the risks involved as a factor leading to irregular migration to Europe from Africa”, said Laurent De Boeck. “We are definitely enthused with our partnership with Mission89, because we see opportunities to leverage and implement extensive awareness-raising interventions to tackle these problems. Through research-driven strategies and robust education initiatives, we aim to extinguish the shadows of exploitation that loom over young dreams.”

The signing of the MoU between IOM and Mission 89 is a clarion call for collective action against the trafficking of young athletes, an assertion that the global community is steadfast in its resolve to safeguard the dreams and aspirations of the youth. Through the collaborative effort, a stronger, safer, and more equitable future awaits aspiring footballers, ensuring that the essence of the beautiful game remains untainted.