NCJ Number
225019
Journal
Child Abuse & Neglect Volume: 32 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2008 Pages: 941-948
Date Published
October 2008
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This study identifies the issues and patterns of child trafficking involving Albanian children.
Abstract
Findings identify the role of family poverty especially as set within a context of societal poverty and membership in a marginalized group (Gypsy), in increasing the risk of children being trafficked. Severe family dysfunction combined with ignorance of the reality of trafficking further increased the risk of being trafficked. Albanian children experienced extremely harsh conditions during trafficking. The reintegration process was difficult because of stigma, lack of community resources, ongoing family problems, and their own trauma. Social policies that do not protect victims and allow traffickers to operate without fear of punishment further support trafficking. Results identified community and family poverty, family dysfunction, ignorance regarding trafficking, inadequate legal policies and implementation, and membership in a disadvantaged group as key factors placing children at risk for the harsh world of trafficking. Prevention and protection require domestic and international partnerships to provide legal protection and the resources to address poverty, inform parents, and ameliorate family problems. Reintegration requires treatment for trauma as well as alternative educational and vocational opportunities. Data were collected from 61 children who had escaped from trafficking, 22 children from similar at-risk groups who had not been trafficked, 15 parents of currently or previously trafficked children, 10 parents had not been trafficked, 15 parents of currently or previously trafficked children, 10 parents from a similar groups whose children had not been trafficked, and 8 key informants. Table, references