16.10.2024

Leadership Evolution at STOP THE TRAFFIK

Strengthening the Fight Against Human Trafficking.

Leadership Evolution at STOP THE TRAFFIK

It’s been 20 years since Ruth Dearnley, Steve Chalke and other pioneers founded STOP THE TRAFFIK, a coalition dedicated to ending human trafficking worldwide.  Under Ruth’s visionary leadership as President and founding CEO, the charity has pioneered an intelligence-led approach to preventing human trafficking and modern slavery.

One of the key innovations during Ruth’s tenure has been the development of the world’s richest human trafficking database, the Traffik Analysis Hub (TAHub).  Built around the stories of survivors and those at risk, the TA Hub’s expert-driven analysis and resulting action has reached over 28 million vulnerable individuals.  By mapping trafficking routes and hotspots, this intelligence has not only disrupted recruitment but has also empowered financial institutions, law enforcement, businesses, and NGOs to dismantle the systems traffickers rely on.

A New Chapter of Leadership

Building on these accomplishments, STOP THE TRAFFIK is evolving its leadership to meet the increasing complexities of a volatile world. Ruth Dearnley will transition to a newly created role as President, focusing on expanding global partnerships and amplifying the charity’s impact. Taking the helm as CEO, is Rebekah Lisgarten, current Operations Director.

Geraldine Lawlor, Chair of STOP THE TRAFFIK emphasised the strategic importance of the transition, “I’m delighted that our thoughtful succession planning has resulted in such a smooth handover.  This ensures the stability and resilience of STOP THE TRAFFIK, while accelerating our future impact.  I’d like to thank Ruth for her unwavering commitment to disrupting human trafficking and modern slavery and wish Rebekah much success in her new role.”

Rebekah Lisgarten brings more than a decade of experience in anti-human trafficking roles. Having been with STOP THE TRAFFIK’s executive team for five years, she has played a pivotal role in shaping its global operations.  Before joining STOP THE TRAFFIK, Rebekah worked directly with trafficking survivors in the UK, Greece, India, and Cambodia.  She led strategic initiatives to protect vulnerable populations in European refugee camps and held leadership roles at a UK survivor support organisation Hestia.

“I’m honoured to lead the next phase of STOP THE TRAFFIK’s remarkable journey.”, says Rebekah.  “Together with our partners, clients, funders, and our exceptional dedicated team, I’m committed to continuing the mission of prevention at scale.  It’s a privilege to succeed Ruth, whose leadership has been transformative.  I’m excited to build on her legacy and drive our mission forward with relentless energy and collaboration.”

She continues, “The fight against trafficking requires radical collaboration across governments, business, the financial sector, NGOs and citizens.   We’ve made significant strides over the past 20 years, but now it the time to push for lasting change.  I believe we can be the generation that finally creates a world where people aren’t bought or sold.”

Looking Ahead

As President, Ruth will focus on expanding STOP THE TRAFFIK’s global networks and forging new partnerships to disrupt trafficking systems.

“In my new role, I’ll be opening new doors of opportunity, connecting global influencers and mobilising a movement that accelerates our efforts to disrupt traffickers’ operations. We will amplify stories of successful disruption. The risks are increasing to anyone who engages in trafficking people” she says.  “I’m excited to continue to work alongside Beka in this next chapter.  Having worked with her for five years, I know she has the vision, courage and, compassion to lead STT into its future.”

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