What is Human Trafficking?

DALL·E 2025-03-05 20.06.50 - A realistic digital painting depicting human trafficking, sho

Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings: Article 4(a)

"Trafficking in human beings" shall mean the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of persons, by means of the threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of deception, of the abuse of power or of a position of vulnerability or of the giving or receiving of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person, for the purpose of exploitation. “

Victims of human trafficking can be children or adults from any background or nationality. They may be subjected to exploitation in various industries, including agriculture, construction, domestic work, and the sex trade.

Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights and is a crime under international law as well as the laws of many countries. It is a highly profitable industry, generating billions of dollars each year and affecting millions of people worldwide.

What is Modern Day Slavery?

Modern-day slavery encompasses various exploitative practices, including human trafficking, where individuals are recruited, transported, or harbored through force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of exploitation. This exploitation can manifest as forced labor, sexual exploitation, or other forms of servitude.

Human trafficking is a primary conduit through which individuals become ensnared in modern slavery. Traffickers employ tactics such as deception, threats, and violence to control victims, compelling them into exploitative situations from which they cannot escape.

This intricate relationship between human trafficking and modern slavery underscores the critical need for comprehensive strategies to combat these violations of human rights.

ACT:

Recruitment
Transportation
Transfer
Harbouring
Receipt

MEANS:

Threat/violence
Coercion
Abduction
Deception
Abuse of power
Abuse of vulnerability
Debt bondage

PURPOSE:

Sexual exploitation
Forced labour
Domestic servitude
Organ harvesting
Forced criminality
Forced marriage

A victim of human trafficking or modern slavery may not seek help due to various factors, including fear of actual or threatened abuse, threats to their family, and a deep distrust of authorities. They may be controlled through substance addiction or the withholding of medication, while fears of deportation can also deter them from coming forward. Some victims feel a sense of loyalty to their trafficker or exploiter, while others experience overwhelming shame and hopelessness about their situation. A lack of a safe space to disclose their experiences, fears of curses or witchcraft (juju), and not recognising themselves as victims further prevent them from seeking assistance. Language barriers, communication difficulties, and financial constraints, including debt bondage, also play significant roles in keeping victims trapped.