SEX TRAFFICKING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR US & INTERNATIONAL POLICY

Abstract

There are an estimated 24.9 million people being trafficked around the world (Human Trafficking, 2020). This project explores discourse and framing around trafficked individuals, particularly those trafficked for sex work, and how this influences approaches and frameworks for policy development, with the goal of making policy and service recommendations. The analysis begins with definitions, followed by general overviews of US and international policies relating to prevention, policy, and prosecution. It then turns to look at sex trafficking and relevant frameworks. Using trauma-informed language and human and feminist rights, the project advocates for increased education and public awareness on signs of sex trafficking, cohesive policy to criminalize involved perpetrators of sexual exploitation and protect victims and survivors.