Glossaries
Human Trafficking Glossary
Purpose: Offer internationally recognized Spanish-language translations of human trafficking terms.
User Audience: Those who work in victim services and human trafficking; Spanish-speaking communities and allies.
Participant Audience: English as a Second Language (ESL) and English Language Learner primary and secondary survivors.
This glossary is a working compilation of English-to-Spanish translations of human trafficking-related terms and terms used in Latin American countries and by Spanish-speaking Latina/o victim advocates who reside in the United States. Internationally recognized human trafficking terms in Spanish, popular terms, and some slang references are included.
When two options are offered in Spanish, the listing is in order of popularity as indicated in feedback received during the product demonstration stage and in online references. In some cases, the preferences were due to regional locations and the specific Latina/o groups being served or were related to particular Latina/o victim advocate’s dialects.
This glossary is not intended to be an authoritative reference document with the only correct trafficking-related translations. As more and more organizations work to prevent human trafficking and advocate on behalf of victims’ rights and more humane labor conditions, terms will continue to evolve.
When using this glossary, be mindful of specific dialect and educational considerations that may be unique to your target audience. It is also very important to keep up with evolving terminology.