Child Trafficking
By Tasfia Ahmed & Helena Kimber
Child trafficking is a heinous crime that involves the exploration and abuse of innocent children for forced labor, sexual exploitation, and other forms of slavery. It is also a form of modern-day slavery that involves the illegal transportation and exploration of children for various purposes. It is a violation of fundamental human rights and a severe global issue that affects millions of children every year. The process of child trafficking involves several steps, starting with the recruitment of vulnerable children. This can happen in many ways, such as giving a false promise of a better life or job opportunities. The traffickers often target children from poor and marginalized communities who are seeking a way out of poverty. Once the children are recruited, they are usually taken to different locations, either within their own country or across the borders. They are often transported in inhumane conditions, such as overcrowded trucks, hidden compartments in cars, or different transportation. This journey can be dangerous and traumatic for children who are separated from their families. After the children are handed to the traffickers, they are subjected to physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. They are often beaten, starved, and forced to work in dangerous and degrading conditions.
The causes of child trafficking are complex and interrelated, making it challenging to address and eradicate; gender inequality and conflicts are some of the primary factors that make children vulnerable to trafficking. Families living in poverty often see their children as a source of income and are easily deceived by traffickers promising a better life for their children. Lack of education also plays a significant role, as children from marginalized communities are more likely to be trafficked due to their limited knowledge and awareness of the dangers of trafficking. Gender inequality is another critical factor that contributes to child trafficking. In many societies, girls are seen as less valuable and more often subjected to discrimination and abuse.
Moreover, child trafficking has a ripple effect on society. It keeps the cycle of poverty, as children are trafficked and denied education and opportunities for a better future. It also contributes to the spread of diseases, as trafficked children are often forced into different activities such as prostitution, which puts them at a higher risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections. Additionally, trafficking fuels other criminal activities, such as drug and arms trafficking, as traffickers often have links to organized crimes. Some other effects can be exhaustion, fatigue, confusion, distress and anxiety, and physical injuries from labor and abuse.
How can we help the victims of child trafficking?
Child trafficking is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to tackle it effectively. By raising awareness, supporting organizations providing opportunities for survivors, advocating for change, being responsible consumers, are all the ways we can help all the victims of child trafficking. Also, we can call the national human trafficking hotline to provide free confidential support 24/7. Call 1-888-373-7888, text HELP to 233733 (BEFREE) or chat via humantraffickinghotline.org/chat.
Sources:
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/what-is-child-abuse/types-of-abuse/child-trafficking/
https://polarisproject.org/blog/2020/08/what-we-know-about-how-child-sex-trafficking-happens/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5843209/