In a recent government meeting, significant strides were made towards addressing human trafficking in connection with the upcoming 2026 World Cup. The proposed legislation establishes a Governor's Survivor Leaders Advisory Council within the Department of Health, aimed at tackling trafficking issues during the global event. The council is tasked with producing a report on trafficking related to the World Cup and has been allocated $1 million for its initiatives.

Assemblyman Rodriguez, who has actively sought input from various stakeholders, emphasized the importance of survivor involvement in the council. The legislation mandates that council members be selected from a coalition of survivors, ensuring that those with lived experiences play a central role in shaping policies and responses to trafficking.

The World Cup, set to take place across 16 cities in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, will feature 48 teams and is expected to attract a global audience. With events scheduled at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, preparations are underway to ensure that local hotel operators are trained to recognize and respond to signs of human trafficking, similar to protocols established during the Super Bowl.

Key provisions of the bill include allowing survivors to meet separately at least four times a year, fostering a safe environment for collaboration. The legislation also highlights the need for a survivor-driven approach, with a focus on human rights as the World Cup coincides with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

While the bill does not currently provide for compensation for survivors' time, advocates are pushing for measures to honor their contributions. The waiting period for council member selection has been reduced from 240 to 180 days, with calls for further reductions to expedite the process.

As the meeting concluded, participants expressed optimism about the collaborative efforts ahead, emphasizing the urgency of preparing for the World Cup and the critical need to address human trafficking effectively.