Accelerating Economic Justice Through Corporate Courage and Nonprofit Connections

Thank you to everyone who attended the 2024 Nomi Network Corporate Summit at the United Nations in the Delegate’s Diningroom during the 2024 U.N. Global Assembly (UNGA).

The Summit theme was Accelerators of Economic Justice. The focus was on the intersection of technology, artificial intelligence, and global economic externalities, specifically as it relates to their impact on human trafficking. Dignitaries, corporate leaders, and philanthropists discussed strategies for strengthening corporate social responsibility and expanding workforce opportunities for survivors and those vulnerable to exploitation. Together, we are generating solutions to address human trafficking through corporate partnerships with nonprofit organizations such as Nomi Network.?

With poverty as a primary driver of trafficking vulnerability worldwide, attendees engaged in discussions on how to close the income gap, create more environmentally conscious “green jobs,” and expand employment opportunities to more vulnerable populations. Panelists gave clear calls for action.

Matthew McCarthy , a Business Executive and former CEO of Ben & Jerry’s shared how corporate leaders should balance profit with social responsibility.

“Balance is a zero-sum game… We need a better analogy. How do you acknowledge the interconnectedness of the planet, people, and countries? Tackling these issues takes courage, and great leaders democratize courage, knowing that great ideas can come from anywhere within a company.”?

Diya Wynn , Responsible AI Lead for Amazon Web Services, reminded attendees that everyone should have a seat at the table.

“Women and children are not outliers we are willing to risk. We all have a responsibility to ensure that all voices and perspectives are advanced.”

Kirsi Madi , UN Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director of UN Women, agreed, sharing that a more sustainable future for women and children “...requires the world to confront a major barrier to sustainable development: gender inequality, which undermines the health and prosperity of every society.

John Richmond , US Ambassador to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons Emeritus, emphasized corporations' power to address the issue. He encouraged corporate leaders in attendance to include a requirement for working with and supporting survivors when negotiating with governments for business.?

Susan Coppedge , US Ambassador to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons Emeritus, expanded on the calls to action by emphasizing that “Businesses are a vital partner to deliver healing and assist survivors with jobs and training.”?

The consensus across the panels was clear: corporations are uniquely positioned to drive change globally by creating opportunities for survivors and vulnerable women and girls. Nomi Network believes that partnerships with the private sector are the most effective way to bring vital resources to some of the world's most challenging communities.

Nomi Network is dedicated to ending human trafficking by providing safe employment and sustainable income-generating pathways for women and girls. We choose to work in areas where opportunities for women are low, and the risks for exploitation are high.

Women build social capital and workforce skills to enter employment. Additionally, business coaching and start-up capital create entrepreneurship opportunities for micro-businesses. Corporate partnerships provide insight into skills needed for employment pathways, workforce exposure, employment, and access to new markets. Together, we create a network of support so women can break free from cycles of exploitation and reach their full potential.