The U.S. State Department on Monday placed Brazil and South Africa on its human trafficking watch list, citing failures to show sufficient progress in combating forced labor and sex trafficking.
Both countries were downgraded to the Tier 2 Watch List in the department’s annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report. The ranking means they must demonstrate greater efforts against trafficking or risk possible U.S. sanctions.
The TIP report acknowledged “significant efforts” by both governments but said results fell short.
For South Africa, the report cited the launch of the country’s first sub-provincial task team and more convictions of traffickers. However, it said the government identified fewer victims and initiated fewer prosecutions compared to previous years.
In Brazil, the report noted a decline in trafficking investigations, prosecutions, and initial convictions.
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Downgrade deepens Trump’s rift with both countries
The downgrade comes amid heightened tensions between both countries and the Trump administration. President Donald Trump has accused South Africa of persecuting its white minority and has imposed tariffs, visa restrictions, and sanctions. Brazil has also faced tariffs and restrictions following the trial and conviction of former President Jair Bolsonaro, a close Trump ally.
“Human trafficking is a horrific and devastating crime that also enriches transnational criminal organisations and immoral, anti-American regimes,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement, though he did not comment on the specific country rankings.
The TIP report was released nearly three months late after most staff in the office that prepares it were laid off. Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Michael Rigas told Congress that staffing in the Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons had been reduced by 71% this year as part of wider cuts.
Democratic lawmakers earlier raised concerns about the delay. Unlike in previous years, no State Department officials were made available to brief reporters on the report.
