HOUSTON, Texas — Houston city officials and advocacy groups launched a public awareness campaign on Thursday aimed at preventing human trafficking ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will bring thousands of visitors to the city.
The campaign includes billboards across Houston that read “Texas is a No Trafficking Zone” and list penalties of 25 to 99 years in prison for first-degree felony human trafficking convictions. Advertising company Clear Channel provided the billboard space in both English and Spanish.
Houston City Council Member Twila Carter said during a news conference that human trafficking occurs within local communities and not only in distant locations.
The initiative is a partnership between the city and the nonprofit organization No Trafficking Zone, which works with local agencies including the Houston Police Department and sports and entertainment organizations.
No Trafficking Zone Chief Executive Officer Jacquelyn Aluotto said the campaign reflects collaboration among public and private partners to address trafficking risks.
Advocates said large international events, including the World Cup, can increase the risk of human trafficking, although studies vary on the extent of that impact. The Houston World Cup host committee included trafficking prevention measures in its human rights plan.
Airbnb, an official World Cup supporter, also announced a $225,000 investment in anti-trafficking initiatives in Texas, including funding for Houston-based nonprofit United Against Human Trafficking.
Houston is scheduled to host seven FIFA World Cup matches at NRG Stadium between June 14 and July 4, 2026.
