The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is stepping up public education on the risks of human trafficking through sports as preparations intensify for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
As part of the initiative, a national forum was held in Accra at the University of Ghana’s ISSER Conference Hall under the theme “Play It Safe: Choose the Right Path in Sports.”
Speaking at the event, IOM National Project Officer Eric Kwame Akomanyi said many young athletes are falling victim to traffickers due to limited access to accurate information and proper guidance.
“A lot of young people do not have the right information, and that is where traffickers take advantage,” he said, adding that victims are often lured with promises of opportunities that do not exist.
He stressed that awareness and education remain key to preventing exploitation, especially as more young people look for opportunities abroad ahead of the World Cup.
“If people are well informed, they are less likely to fall victim,” he noted. “Verification is very important before any travel decision is made.”
The IOM said it is working closely with government agencies, the media and other stakeholders to promote safe migration pathways and raise awareness of the risks linked to unverified sports-related opportunities.
“We want people to choose the right path and avoid irregular routes that could put their lives at risk,” the organisation added.
The campaign forms part of broader efforts to curb trafficking and protect both athletes and fans as global interest builds ahead of the tournament.