Human trafficking is a global problem that is receiving the attention of legislators and law enforcement. Legislative efforts are focused largely on increasing corporate responsibility in the eradication of human trafficking. New legislation requires corporations to identify, examine, and eliminate the use of forced labor in their production and manufacture supply chains. Corporations now face the threat of civil and criminal ramifications for failing to comply with these new and heightened requirements.

This Jones Day White Paper describes the recent legislation in this area, sets forth the possible ramifications for failing to know and understand the corporate obligations, and analyzes the possibility of future legislation and litigation.