Epstein and the $236 billion dollar crime

On this episode of "Deseret Voices," guest host Doug Wilks, executive editor of the  Deseret News is joined by Kevin Hyland, the United Kingdom's first independent anti-slavery commissioner, to uncover the complex and often hidden world of modern-day slavery. With over 50 million victims worldwide and an estimated 1 million in the United States alone, the conversation explores why current global efforts are failing to meet the scale of this $236 billion criminal industry.

Key Discussion Topics:

• The Rise of Cyber Fraud Trafficking: How organized gangs in Southeast Asia and Africa kidnap individuals and force them to run online "scam factories" targeting  U.S. and U.K.citizens. 

• The Funding Gap: A critical look at why the G20 allocates only $1.6 billion to fight trafficking — compared to the trillions spent on terrorism — and Hyland’s call for a $30 billion investment by 2030.

• Sporting Events & Exploitation: Why major sporting events like the World Cup and the 2034 Winter Olympics require years of proactive planning to prevent an influx of human trafficking and forced labor.

• Supply Chain Ethics: The hidden reality of child labor and slavery in the production of everyday items like smartphones, laptops, and car batteries.

• The Role of Faith Communities: How interfaith forums and religious organizations are uniquely positioned to give a voice to the voiceless and provide support for trafficking survivors.

“Deseret Voices” is hosted by award-winning journalists McKay Coppins and Jane Clayson Johnson, who go beyond the headlines to explore the stories, people, and ideas shaping our world today. Through thoughtful, in-depth conversations, the “Deseret Voices” podcast brings clarity and common ground to the complex issues defining our time. 

“Deseret Voices” is a Deseret News podcast, produced by Keira Farrimond, Creative Director - Video & Podcasts.

Episodes of “Deseret Voices” drop every Thursday wherever you get your podcasts. Follow along and join the conversation on YouTube (@deseretnews), Instagram (@deseretnews), Facebook (@deseretnews) and X (@deseret).