the discipline of human security, as well as, and according to our college’s motto — innovative education and research to promote positive change around the world.” As of fall 2024, Embry-Riddle offers a four-plus- one program in which students can earn a B.S. in Communication with a new specialization in crisis, risk and resilience communication; then, transition into an M.S. in Human Security and Resilience, completing both programs online in five years. Countering human trafficking is an evolving research topic at Embry-Riddle Worldwide. Dr. Hoban explained that in her research on the impact of armed conflict and other international security threats on vulnerable populations, “human trafficking consistently emerged as a pressing concern.” Often, the survivors of human trafficking are people made vulnerable by their situations, having emerged from war, disasters, foster care, previous abuse or other difficult situations, the researchers said. Misconceptions about the issue and about who is affected have often resulted in a kind of “moral panic,” Dr. Rister said. In some cases, for instance, migrants fleeing violence and repression have been mistakenly blamed for causing human trafficking, “which leads to harmful responses,” she said. The researchers’ work focused on promoting a better understanding of human trafficking and effective ways to address it. Their exploration of the topic highlighted “survivor-centered approaches,” Dr. Hoban explained,
where survivors of human trafficking are essentially asked, “What do you need to heal?” This approach prioritizes the well-being of survivors, avoiding the re-traumatization often associated with prosecution. “Our study aimed to ultimately provide practical insights for nonprofits, government agencies, policymakers and scholars to effectively address this crime in survivor- centered ways,” Dr. Rister said. Maya Adkins, an undergraduate majoring in Homeland Security with minor in Global Conflict Studies, worked with the two professors, having found herself “instantly drawn to courses focusing on international anti-trafficking efforts.” Adkins said the opportunity to do this research and the mentorship she received have “significantly influenced the trajectory of my postgraduate career aspirations.” The first MOOC ended just before the United Nations- sponsored World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30, 2024 — a call to action to expand global awareness and support to end human trafficking. The second MOOC launched on January 11, 2025, National Human Trafficking Awareness Day and “Wear Blue Day,” sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Blue Campaign to raise whole- community awareness about human trafficking and the importance of combating it. Originally written by Michaela Jarvis with Embry-Riddle’s News Team.
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