Vienna (Austria), 25 August 2020 – 30 artists from around the globe performed on this year’s World Day against Trafficking in Persons on 30 July at the first-ever live virtual fundraising concert in support of human trafficking victims through the United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund for Victims of Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children.
The concert was organized by the United Nations Office on Drug and Crime (UNODC) in partnership with the Rukus Avenue Music Group under the initiative Artists UNited against Trafficking in Persons and the umbrella of UNODC’s Blue Heart Campaign against human trafficking.
All proceeds raised at the concert supported the Trust Fund, which provides vital assistance and protection to over 3,500 victims of trafficking ever year through specialized organizations across the globe.
Hosted by UNODC Goodwill Ambassador and actress Mira Sorvino, the live-streamed music concert raised USD 3,600 in donations in support of victims of human trafficking. Viewers were invited to purchase a ticket for a minimum donation of US$ 1.
Special guests included UNODC Executive Director Ms. Ghada Waly; UNODC Goodwill Ambassador and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Ms. Nadia Murad; and Musician and UNODC Goodwill Ambassador for Belgium against human trafficking Mr. Ozark Henry.
Stellar performances included Oscar winner AR Rahman; Grammy winning singer-songwriter Joss Stone; Grammy winning new age composer Ricky Kej; Grammy winning Latin band Ozomatli; Ambassador of Soul” Ellis Hall; Lebanese singer-songwriter Mayssa Karaa; Academy award winning director Jeffrey D. Brown; renowned pianist and Artists UNited Against Human Trafficking Advisory Board member Chloe Flower and many more. The Smurf’s also donated a special illustration for the concert in support of victims.
In addition to raising awareness of the scourge of human trafficking globally, the concert provided an opportunity for musicians and advocates to show their support and solidarity in standing with victims.
For those who missed the live stream, the concert can be viewed on YouTube here. Donations can still be made in support of victims of human trafficking at the following link.
The United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund for Victims of Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children
https://www.unodc.org/unodc/human-trafficking-fund.html
The Blue Heart Campaign against human trafficking
https://www.unodc.org/blueheart/
Rukus Avenue Music Group
https://www.rukusavenue.com/
Artists UNited against Trafficking in Persons
https://www.unodc.org/documents/human-trafficking/Human-Trafficking-Fund/Final_UN_-_Music_To_Inspire_Deck.pdf
