Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming released details about their human trafficking prevention work last week. ECPAT International recognised the company in July as one of 25 top members following its code of conduct commitments. Hard Rock signed onto ECPAT’s code back in 2022.
The gaming operator stands alone in its sector. It’s the only company from the gambling industry named as a top member by ECPAT. That’s notable given 349 organisations participate in The Code program.
Why This Recognition Matters for Child Protection
ECPAT International, formerly known for its End Child Prostitution and Trafficking campaign, gives companies tools to actively protect children. The Code provides a framework for preventing sexual exploitation. Hard Rock’s inclusion signals serious commitment beyond basic compliance.
The gaming sector faces particular scrutiny around child protection issues. Properties that host large numbers of guests need robust prevention systems. Hard Rock’s recognition shows these protocols can work at scale across multiple venues and countries.
What Programs Hard Rock Runs
The Social Identity Quest programme reached 500,000 students across the USA and Mexico in 2025. Hard Rock delivers this course with PACT (Protect All Children from Trafficking). It’s an education-focused approach to prevention.
Hard Rock’s Change for Change initiative lets guests donate ticket change. The company collected $100,000 for PACT through this program so far this year. That’s direct funding for anti-trafficking work.
Team member training hit 65,000 completed sessions in 2025. The sessions cover comprehensive anti-trafficking protocols. Staff training ensures front-line workers can spot warning signs.
Hard Rock and Seminole received PACT’s Freedom Award back in 2023. The award came after they ramped up awareness and prevention efforts that year.
How These Efforts Change Industry Standards
Hard Rock’s approach combines guest donations, student education, and staff training. Most operators pick one focus area. Hard Rock funds all three simultaneously.
The 500,000 students who completed the SIQ programme represent scale most companies don’t attempt. Education programs typically struggle to reach large numbers. Hard Rock’s partnership with PACT solved that distribution problem.
Stephanie Piimauna, SVP of People and Inclusion at Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming, said the company feels “incredibly honoured” by ECPAT’s recognition. The statement didn’t detail what comes next for the programs.
Other gaming companies might now face pressure to match Hard Rock’s commitment. Being the sector’s only top member creates a benchmark others will need to address.
