‘Coronation Street’ to spotlight human trafficking

LONDON: British soap opera Coronation Street will begin a storyline on modern slavery, highlighting the plight of tens of thousands trapped in abusive work conditions across the country.

Campaigners and slavery survivors have praised the storyline, which revolves around a nail salon worker trafficked by an Eastern European slavery ring, for showing a realistic image of the crime and raising awareness among viewers.

“Modern slavery looks really different to the common perception of it,” said a former trafficking victim, identified only as J, who advised producers on the show and the actress playing the victim.

“It might challenge people’s idea of what trafficking is – if it can happenin Coronation Street itcanhappen anywhere.”

Coronation Street has been running since 1960 and shows workingclass communities in the fictional northern English town of Weatherfield. It is among Britain’s most popular soap operas, with millions tuning in each week.

The modern slavery storyline will see regular character Seb Franklin, played by Harry Visinoni, fall for a nail salon worker Alina, played by Romanian actress Ruxandra Porojnicu, only to gradually discover she is a victim of a human trafficking ring.

“We are keen to highlight that slavery hides in plain sight,” said show producer Colin McLeod.

“Our research has shown us that in many towns and cities across Britain, people are being forced to work against their will, living in extreme poverty and in fear for their safety, all so ruthless criminal gangs can get rich at their expense.”

Britain is home to at least 136,000 modern slaves, according to the Global Slavery Index by rights group Walk Free Foundation, many of whom work in businesses ranging from nail bars to hand car washes to farms.