THE Office of the National Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons (ONRTIP) has launched an educational guide aimed at equipping Jamaicans with the knowledge needed to recognise and prevent cyber trafficking.

Speaking at the third staging of ONRTIP’s Conversations on Trafficking series in observance of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, Diahann Gordon Harrison, Jamaica’s rapporteur on trafficking in persons, said the publication was designed to be an engaging and practical resource for Jamaican families navigating the digital world.

“It is a comic book, but it is a comic book with a message,” Gordon Harrison said.

“We wanted to create something that would be engaging, useful and relevant to students, parents and young adults within the Jamaican context.”

The publication, titled Guide to Prevent Cyber Trafficking, seeks to raise awareness of the dangers children and teenagers face online as technology becomes increasingly integrated into education, recreation and everyday life.

ONRTIP developed the guide as a comprehensive educational resource that combines awareness and engagement in an accessible and relatable format for young readers.

At the centre of the guide is the story of Sandy, a teenager who dreams of becoming a model. Feeling emotionally neglected and believing her mother is more focused on household responsibilities than her aspirations, Sandy searches for understanding and validation elsewhere.

A trafficker exploits her vulnerability by presenting himself as the supportive figure she longs for, ultimately luring and abducting her.

Through her experiences readers learn about the warning signs of cyber trafficking, the emotional impact on families, and the importance of seeking help.

In addition to the story the guide provides practical advice for parents and children on recognising unsafe online behaviour, preventing Internet abuse, and responding to potential threats.

A dedicated children’s section includes interactive activities designed to reinforce online safety lessons in an engaging and memorable way.

Gordon Harrison said the publication reflects ONRTIP’s continued commitment to protecting children and families by equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate digital spaces safely and reduce the risk of cyber trafficking.