About
Welcome to a All-Party Group on Modern Slavery and Commercial Sexual Exploitation. The aim of this APG is to see the eradication of modern slavery and sexual exploitation in Northern Ireland. The purpose is to ensure that Northern Ireland is responding effectively to perpetrators of modern slavery and that these victims are given appropriate help and support.
APG Launch Event

The APG on Modern Slavery and Commercial Exploitation was publicly launched on 19th January 2026. As part of our event launch we marked over a decade of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 and the launch of the All-Party Group (APG) on Modern Slavery and Commercial Sexual Exploitation inquiry into ‘pimping’ websites in Northern Ireland. The event brought together policymakers, stakeholders, and advocates to discuss the impact of Lord Morrow’s landmark legislation and explore collaborative efforts through the APG inquiry to protect people from exploitation on pimping websites.
The event had a wide range of inspirational and influential speakers, including MSP Ash Regan, Ruth Breslin, Director of The Sexual Exploitation Research and Policy Institute, Mia DeFaoite Training Lead at Ruhama, Heather Woods from Womens Aid and Eleanor Lyons, the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner
NEWS
Inquiry Written Evidence
The APG have agreed to an extension of the call for written evidence until the 16th June 2026. Should you wish to respond to the inquiry please visit the Inquires section of our website where you can find more information and the Terms of Reference.
Inquiry Oral Evidence Session
Our first oral evidence session will take place on 3rd March 2026.
Inquiry Launch
The APG has launched an inquiry into websites advertising prostitution. We would strongly encourage anyone interested to submit evidence!
APG Chair Message
Peter Martin, Chair of the APG has said, “Modern slavery and commercial sexual exploitation remain among the most urgent and hidden human rights challenges of our time. Behind closed doors, online platforms, and across our communities, too many people continue to face coercion, violence, and exploitation. These are not distant issues; they are realities occurring here and now, demanding sustained attention, strategic action, and collective responsibility. This APG exists to shine a light on those realities. It brings together evidence, policy insights, survivor voices, and practical tools to support those working to prevent exploitation and protect vulnerable individuals. By fostering collaboration across government, civil society, frontline services, and the private sector, we strengthen our shared ability to disrupt exploitative systems and restore safety and dignity to those affected. Ending modern slavery requires perseverance, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to justice”.

