Global awareness-raising initiative Team Up Against Human Trafficking has been launched in Las Vegas, US, featuring major partners from the hotel industry.

Charity It’s A Penalty has been joined by hotel headline partners Wynn Resorts, MGM Resorts International, and Caesars Entertainment, and supporting partners IHG Hotels & Resorts, Airbnb, the American Hotel and Lodging Association Foundation and Hilton.

It’s A Penalty campaigns around major sporting events to combat human trafficking, exploitation and abuse. Previous campaign events included the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, UK, and the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The host of this year’s Super Bowl sporting event, Las Vegas, reportedly ranks in the top 10 US states for trafficked and exploited youth.

According to It’s A Penalty, Nevada’s vibrant tourism and hotel industry presents unique challenges in the fight against human trafficking.

MGM Resorts International vice-president of philanthropy and engagement Maria Jose Gatti commented: "We greatly appreciate the work done by community partners, law enforcement and groups like It's a Penalty to combat human trafficking, and we remain committed to continuing our collaboration to provide actionable steps, education and resources on this vital issue."

The charity's next campaign will take place alongside the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics in Paris from July to August.

In 2023, the AHLA Foundation unveiled its inaugural No Room for Trafficking Advisory Council, consisting of prominent figures from the hotel and lodging industry.