The Price of Slavery: An Analysis of Human Trafficking Policy and Spending in Department of Defense Procurement

Abstract

The Department of Defense (DoD) is charged with upholding the U.S. zero tolerance human trafficking policy in a world of complex, opaque supply chains and constrained human and capital resources. This study explores how the DoD can better leverage its acquisition workforce, sourcing expertise, and data to rigorously uphold the U.S. policy of zero tolerance for human trafficking in such an environment. As part of this analysis a program evaluation of the DoD’s Combating Trafficking in Persons training was conducted for the acquisition workforce. This evaluation categorized the training related to prevention, monitoring, and response to human trafficking. A quantitative analysis of DoD spending was conducted to illuminate the amount of tax dollars spent in categories, based on product and service codes, where trafficking is most prevalent to help the DoD focus its efforts for program improvement. The spend analysis revealed areas that are most at risk. Globally, an estimated 24.9 million people are subjected to human trafficking, which generates an estimated $150 billion annually in illicit profits (White House, 2020, p. 8). Specifically, the DoD spent $13.1 billion (2018–2020) in countries that are not making significant efforts to combat human trafficking according to the Department of State. The research provides insight and recommendations on where the DoD should focus attention to address human trafficking in contracts constrained of prevention, monitoring, and response resources. Finally, we provided recommended courses of action to increase participation and enhance the mandatory training for the acquisition workforce.