Deploying Responsible AI to Combat Exploitation
A global developer challenge to detect, prevent, and disrupt human trafficking with responsible AI.
2026 marks the centenary of the 1926 Slavery Convention — the first international treaty to abolish slavery, signed in Geneva one hundred years ago. A century later, more than 50 million people remain in forced labor, bonded labor, forced marriage, and trafficking, and fewer than half of one percent are ever identified. The systems meant to protect them have not kept pace with the networks that exploit them.
In partnership with global impact partner United Nations Human Rights and Austin AI Hub, Call for Code AI is mobilizing developers, researchers, designers, and advocates worldwide to build AI systems aligned with international human rights standards.
The hybrid challenge is open now for registration, and launches June 11 alongside the opening of one of the largest international sporting events in modern history, and culminates July 30 on the United Nations World Day Against Trafficking in Persons — when winning teams will be recognized on a UN-designated observance day visible to governments, institutions, and the worldwide developer community.
Three core tracks — Anticipate & Disrupt, Assist & Amplify, and Accountability & Justice — are joined by a Special Recognition for Art Against Trafficking, extending engagement to creators working in storytelling, media, and public mobilization. The challenge's official beneficiary is the UN Voluntary Trust Fund on Contemporary Forms of Slavery, ensuring momentum generated by this work translates directly into support for survivors.
Winning solutions will be connected with NGOs, supported through structured mentorship and pilot deployment, and carried forward by Austin AI Hub's sustained ecosystem of AI innovation dedicated to combating human trafficking.
Register now: hackathon.austinaihub.org
Track details & technical requirements: austinaihub.org
One hundred years after the world first pledged to act, this challenge invites a new generation to close the gap between commitment and capability.
