NCJ Number
213705
Date Published
November 2002
Length
37 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews strategies and best practices to combat human trafficking, particularly the trafficking of women and girls.
Abstract
Following an analysis of the extent of human trafficking in the international community, the paper turns to an examination of international human rights laws, including the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Convention on Prevention and Combating Trafficking in Women and Children for Prostitution, 2002, and the United Nations Convention for the Suppression of Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others, 1949. Prevention strategies are outlined that address the main causes of vulnerability for at-risk groups. Strategies include the economic empowerment of women and girls through equal access to educational and employment opportunities and public awareness campaigns to educate communities about the dangers of human trafficking. Recommendations are made for anti-trafficking laws, including the provision that related laws should focus on the violation of the human rights of the victim rather than only on the detection, prosecution, and punishment of offenders. Rescue and rehabilitation strategies for victims are considered and successful strategies from around the world are described, including strategies effectively employed by both governments and non-governmental organizations. The paper examines who the victims of human trafficking are and why they are victimized. Overwhelmingly, human trafficking can be tied to gender discrimination, poverty, and general deprivation. Women and children, particularly girls, who live in economically depressed areas are thus at heightened risk for trafficking victimization. Other groups of vulnerable women and girls are identified, such as those who migrate to urban areas in search of employment and those who are refugees in foreign countries. In closing, the author outlines issues for discussion, such as whether the State is liable for the actions of non-State parties and who should pay compensation to victims. Footnotes