Media narratives on modern day slavery are lacking

November 27, 2013. New York—Global media is waking up to contemporary slavery issues but the narrow media focus on victims and domestic legislative efforts fall short in exposing the effects of a $30 billion crime industry on global society. The most prominent countries of origin and destination for slavery activity are barely visible, according to Media Tenor research.

“Opinion-leading TV news programs across the globe have increased reporting on modern slavery issues, such as trafficking in persons and forced servitude, by a factor of four since last year,” Notes Casey Chancellor, analyst at Media Tenor. “Although this is a step in the right direction the level of reporting is still well below the 2-3 weekly reports needed to break through the public awareness threshold.”

When the media does report on slavery issues, influential media markets are largely focused on domestic activity with the exception of the United States and Canada which combined, devoted nearly 70 percent of coverage to foreign activity, according to Media Tenor research.

“Initiatives in the United States to be the global leader in bringing foreign governments together to legally combat the practice explains this contrast,” notes Chancellor. “However such high levels of domestic reporting from other regional media markets does little to recognize the interconnectedness of the practice and how it corrupts labor markets and global supply chains that are essential to a thriving global economy.”

Analysis of protagonists associated with the practice reveal that few individuals or companies are ever exposed in relation to trafficking or forced labor practices, while general groups, such as victims and criminals, are the main focus. “This kind of reporting could potentially alienate the public as reporting seems abstract,” says Chancellor. “Identifying how modern day slavery is permeating all industries could potentially shift how the public understands the issues.”

For additional information, or to schedule an interview with Media Tenor, please contact Casey Chancellor at 714-595-5921 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.