Lydia Cacho Ribeiro: The Sex-Trade Activist That Tackled Cancún

A Mexican human rights activist is being honored by the U.S. for her fight against human trafficking and the international sex trade. Lydia Cacho Ribeiro is one of the U.S. State Department's eight "Heroes Acting to End Modern-Day Slavery" for 2007.

The women's center that Cacho Ribeiro runs in Cancún-for victimized women and children-is considered one of the safest in Mexico. Cacho Ribeiro also works as a journalist and public advocate for victims of sexual predators. In addition to the U.S. State Department award, she's also been honored this year by Amnesty International.

Human trafficking in Mexico has long been a concern to Mexican officials and human rights organizations, due to Mexico's location between Central America and the U.S. (To the south, Mexico is bordered by Central America's northernmost countries, Guatemala and Belize.)

Undocumented immigrants are at risk from human traffickers prowling these border areas. The most common victims are women and children, who are often seized and sold either into the sex or slave labor trades.

Most of Mexico's long southern border runs through the remote mountain and jungle areas of Chiapas and Campeche. Cancún, where Cacho Ribeiro's center is located, is only a few hours' drive (just under 200 miles) away.

Best Regards,

Suzan Haskins
Editor, Mexico Insider
International Living

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