I’m thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, a seasoned expert in the hospitality industry with deep roots in travel and tourism. Katarina has also made her mark in entertainment and events, often speaking at major expos and conferences. Today, we’re diving into her insights on the critical intersection of hospitality and anti-human trafficking efforts, particularly focusing on a recent impactful summit hosted by the AHLA Foundation. Join us as we explore the industry’s role in combating this global issue, the power of collaboration, and the importance of supporting survivors.
Can you tell us what the No Room for Trafficking Summit is all about and what makes it such a pivotal event for the hotel industry?
The No Room for Trafficking Summit is a cornerstone event that brings together a wide range of voices—survivors, industry leaders, and experts—to tackle human trafficking head-on. It’s about uniting the hotel industry to share best practices, develop strategies, and commit to real action against this crime. The main goal is to foster collaboration and education while providing tangible resources to support survivors. It’s a unique platform where the industry doesn’t just talk about the problem but actively works on solutions, making it a vital gathering for driving change.
Why do you think holding the Summit on the United Nations World Day against Trafficking in Persons carries such weight?
Aligning the Summit with this global day of recognition amplifies its message in a powerful way. It connects the hotel industry’s efforts to a worldwide movement, drawing attention to the issue on a day when the world is already focused on it. This timing helps raise awareness not just within the industry but also among the public, encouraging broader support and understanding of how critical the fight against trafficking is. It’s a reminder that this is a shared responsibility across borders and sectors.
The Summit has been described as a powerful call-to-action. What does that phrase mean to you in this context?
To me, it’s about igniting a sense of urgency and purpose. It’s not enough to acknowledge the problem; the Summit pushes the industry to commit to concrete steps—whether that’s training staff to spot signs of trafficking or partnering with organizations that support survivors. It’s a rallying cry for hotels to use their unique position, with millions of guests and employees, to make a real difference. For instance, this year’s event spurred renewed commitments to education programs and partnerships that directly impact prevention efforts.
How did having survivors participate in the Summit influence the conversations and outcomes?
Survivors bring a perspective that no one else can. Their lived experiences ground the discussions in reality, reminding everyone why this work matters so much. They highlight the nuances of what trafficking looks like and what recovery entails, which helps shape more effective policies and programs. Their stories often leave a lasting impact, inspiring attendees to push harder for change. Hearing directly from them makes the issue personal, not just a statistic, and that’s incredibly motivating.
One key focus of the Summit was survivor employment. Can you share why this topic is so crucial in the fight against trafficking?
Employment is often a lifeline for survivors. It’s not just about income—it’s about rebuilding dignity, independence, and a sense of normalcy after trauma. But the challenges are huge; survivors might face stigma, gaps in work history, or emotional hurdles that make holding a job tough. The hotel industry, with its diverse roles and scale, has a unique opportunity to offer pathways to employment. Discussions at the Summit focused on creating supportive hiring practices and environments where survivors can thrive, which is a game-changer for their recovery.
The event also featured sessions with vendors and industry stakeholders. How do these groups contribute to preventing human trafficking?
Vendors and stakeholders are essential because they often provide the tools and systems that hotels rely on daily. At the Summit, we saw discussions around innovative technologies and training resources they can offer to help staff identify and report suspicious activity. Their partnerships with hotels ensure that prevention efforts are woven into everyday operations, from supply chains to guest interactions. These collaborations amplify the industry’s reach and effectiveness in stopping trafficking before it happens.
Can you explain the purpose of the NRFT Survivor Fund and why it’s such an important initiative?
The NRFT Survivor Fund is a lifeline for organizations that directly support survivors of trafficking. It provides financial backing to community-based groups that offer critical services like counseling, housing, and job training. Since starting in 2023, the fund has awarded over $2.35 million to 27 organizations across the country. These programs help survivors rebuild their lives, addressing both immediate needs and long-term recovery. It’s a testament to the industry’s commitment to not just prevent trafficking but to actively heal its impact.
This year’s grantees included survivor-founded organizations. Why is it so meaningful to support groups led by those with lived experience?
Supporting survivor-founded organizations is incredibly powerful because they understand the needs and challenges better than anyone. Their firsthand knowledge ensures that resources are used in the most effective, empathetic ways. For example, some of these groups focus on tailored mentorship or safe housing, directly addressing gaps that survivors face. Highlighting their work also sends a message of empowerment, showing that survivors aren’t just victims—they’re leaders driving change. It’s a deeply inspiring shift in perspective.
Looking ahead, what is your forecast for the hotel industry’s role in combating human trafficking over the next few years?
I’m optimistic that the industry will continue to take a leadership role in this fight. I expect we’ll see even deeper integration of anti-trafficking training into standard operations, with technology playing a bigger part in detection and reporting. Collaborations like those fostered at the Summit will likely grow, bringing in more partners from outside the industry to create a wider net of support. Most importantly, I think the focus on survivor empowerment—through employment and funding—will expand, positioning hotels as not just businesses, but as forces for social good.
