Legatum is committed to human liberty and has invested in projects that protect, educate and rescue women and children from human traffickers.

Human trafficking is a serious issue in Ecuador. Thousands of children and young women fall victim to trafficking, such as prostitution, because they are uninformed of predators’ tactics. In 2005, Legatum funded an initiative to increase awareness of human trafficking, rehabilitate victims, and educate policy makers on effective combat tactics.

Over 300,000 children, parents, school teachers, and community leaders participated in prevention-oriented workshops. Over 2,500 victims received medical rehabilitation and legal assistance. And through the work of civil society groups, including organisations participating in this initiative, the Congress of Ecuador approved a law to prosecute criminals for sexual exploitation against minors.