US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has honoured Gary Haugen, for his work in eradicating human trafficking.

Mr Haugen, International Justice Mission (IJM) co-founder and president, was honoured as a 2012 trafficking in persons (TIP) report hero in the fight against modern-day slavery.

"Our TIP report heroes remind us one person's commitment, passion, and courage can have a huge impact," said Secretary Clinton. "The US is not alone in this fight and it is a high priority for President Obama and the administration."

IJM offers relief, justice, long-term aftercare, and structural transformation within justice systems to help put an end to trafficking. It was founded by a group of Christian lawyers, including Mr Haugen, 1997 with the goal of manifesting Christ's passion for justice by providing assistance to victims of human trafficking, oppression, and abuse.

According to Mr Haugen, the Christian faith that underpins what the organisation does has been integral in keeping it running and thriving.

"It is a great honour to accept this distinction on behalf of my brave colleagues who are working in their own communities around the world to rescue and protect victims of violent oppression," he says.

"Through the dedication of leaders in governments around the world, and the tireless support of Ambassador CdeBaca and the TIP Office, the global anti-trafficking movement is seeing real gains in the fight as governments succeed in ensuring that the law works for everyone - particularly the poor – who are most vulnerable to trafficking."