Most people often think that trafficking of people is a problem of that belongs to the era of our forefathers. It is difficult for them to visualize that this modern day slavery is happening now and here. The sad part is the physical, emotional and psychological bondage it gives to its victims. According to reports by human trafficking expert, this industry is worth close to $32 billion and exploits adults and children alike.
Human trafficking is second in international crimes following unlawful drugs and arms dealing closely. It does no have to across borders to qualify. Selling of people in this day and age is a gross violation of human rights. Most victims develop mental illnesses, abuse drugs and are more likely to commit violent crimes. In addition, women who have been previously trafficked for sexual reasons have higher rates of STDs and may experience irreversible damage in their reproductive systems.
The target group is chosen based on economical and social reasons. Usually, people from broken homes or with social or psychological problems which can be easily exploited are targeted. Another incentive provided is jobs and money. Victims are promised lavish lifestyles, love and friends well depending on what they are looking for. This is usually appealing for people from poor backgrounds.
Recruitment may be over the Internet especially on social media. Sometimes, the victims are approached physically on the street and recruited slowly sometimes without even them being aware. Other people may agree to get into the deal being offered while being ignorant of the lurking dangers of trafficking. In most cases, recruitment is not by a stranger but a person well known to the victim.
People are trafficked for two major reasons, sexual exploitation and provision of cheap or sometimes free labor. A higher number of victims are sold for sex purposes while a small and yet significant number of people is sold to provide labor. Mistreatment is common, some people even die. Brothels and domestic households are some of the places where victims work.
Children who undergo abuse in the hands of their family members are most vulnerable. It is easy for exploiters to win them over through better treatment and lots of compliments and attention. Children who have fallen into this trap are easy to identify. They may change their wardrobe and grooming style to fit their new financial status. They are also able to afford electronics such as cell phones which they may not have had before. Once identified, they should be offered help.
Increasing awareness about this heinous crime is the first step towards prevention of human trafficking. It is a pity that there are still people who are oblivious of the magnitude of this problem. There is a lot that needs to be done so that members of the public are able to spot victims and offer help. Schools, communities and families alike need to have programs where such victims are assisted.
It is important that the society is taught on the virtue of self respect and that of others especially the women. Laws should be made that seek to root out the source of this problem from the gangs to the customers themselves. The culture of paying for sex should be abolished and pedophiles punished. If you identify a victim of this slavery, experts advise that you do not try to help them out yourself. Instead, reach out to the expert or law enforcement and report.
Human trafficking is second in international crimes following unlawful drugs and arms dealing closely. It does no have to across borders to qualify. Selling of people in this day and age is a gross violation of human rights. Most victims develop mental illnesses, abuse drugs and are more likely to commit violent crimes. In addition, women who have been previously trafficked for sexual reasons have higher rates of STDs and may experience irreversible damage in their reproductive systems.
The target group is chosen based on economical and social reasons. Usually, people from broken homes or with social or psychological problems which can be easily exploited are targeted. Another incentive provided is jobs and money. Victims are promised lavish lifestyles, love and friends well depending on what they are looking for. This is usually appealing for people from poor backgrounds.
Recruitment may be over the Internet especially on social media. Sometimes, the victims are approached physically on the street and recruited slowly sometimes without even them being aware. Other people may agree to get into the deal being offered while being ignorant of the lurking dangers of trafficking. In most cases, recruitment is not by a stranger but a person well known to the victim.
People are trafficked for two major reasons, sexual exploitation and provision of cheap or sometimes free labor. A higher number of victims are sold for sex purposes while a small and yet significant number of people is sold to provide labor. Mistreatment is common, some people even die. Brothels and domestic households are some of the places where victims work.
Children who undergo abuse in the hands of their family members are most vulnerable. It is easy for exploiters to win them over through better treatment and lots of compliments and attention. Children who have fallen into this trap are easy to identify. They may change their wardrobe and grooming style to fit their new financial status. They are also able to afford electronics such as cell phones which they may not have had before. Once identified, they should be offered help.
Increasing awareness about this heinous crime is the first step towards prevention of human trafficking. It is a pity that there are still people who are oblivious of the magnitude of this problem. There is a lot that needs to be done so that members of the public are able to spot victims and offer help. Schools, communities and families alike need to have programs where such victims are assisted.
It is important that the society is taught on the virtue of self respect and that of others especially the women. Laws should be made that seek to root out the source of this problem from the gangs to the customers themselves. The culture of paying for sex should be abolished and pedophiles punished. If you identify a victim of this slavery, experts advise that you do not try to help them out yourself. Instead, reach out to the expert or law enforcement and report.
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