Human trafficking is easy to understand, yet complex. First, it is easy money and very profitable. Second, the demand for labor and sex is universal and difficult to prosecute. Third, it looks like everyday prostitution, which is tolerated, to observers and even cops. Therefore, it has been difficult to pinpoint the traffickers, let alone victims. And with corruption within law enforcement, it feels like a dead end to people who want to help.
Who are the victims and how do they become the prey?
The first encounter is usually in a mall, playground or neighborhood. Children who appear to be lost, left at a mall, an arcade or the movies usually becomes the victim. Traffickers are attracted to kids on their own with low self-esteem. They solicit in a kindly way: “You are beautiful,” “Have you ever thought about becoming a model?” Some are offered drugs or an opportunity to be in a movie.
Children and teens that run away from home are seen as vulnerable victims. Traffickers know exactly what to say to lure their victims into feeling security and comfort with a promise of a new life. They give the victim the impression that it is their own choice –that they are independent. The victim feels grown-up and believes this person understands them and their parents do not.
They are then beaten, drugged, raped and made to believe it was their choice. “They are told that they will be arrested for prostitution and that the trafficker/pimp is the one who will protect them now and keep them safe (Kennedy & Smith, 2007).” Victims are traded, sold, or brought to a prostitution district or large work site –like
I now understand why my mother used to make sure I was by her side when we were shopping. She used to tell me that kids were kidnapped and sold, but I thought she said those things to scare me. And I did not know that run away kids and young teens were such vulnerable people, but it makes sense –they are emotional. They are angry at their “strict” parents and wish they had someone that understood them or that they had a better life. Some victims may come from lower socioeconomic class, abusive homes, have alcohol or drug addicted parents, and may even be addicted to drugs themselves. But raising public awareness through ads, commercials, children television programs, school and parents will help decrease the chances of victims lured by traffickers.
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/09/11/earlyshow/main3250963.shtml
http://vimdy.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/human_trafficking-photo1.jpg
Thanks for the comment ;)
ReplyDeleteI only recently found out about gangs in the military. It was shocking to me because they are given guns and trained how to kill. They become efficiently violent and paid to learn. Crazy.
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That picture of the mother holding a picture of her daughter is sad. I wonder how many of these kids that get sold ever find their way back home.
It's scary to think how easily a vulnerable child or teenager can become a victim of such a horrible crime. Since malls and movie theaters are such public places, and popular places for all ages to hang out, there is no suspicion when an adult is wandering around. Parents usually let their children go to these places without supervision, since they seem "safe," due to the large number of other people. Unfortunately, like you said, luring a teenage girl, especially, is simple with a compliment and an offer to have her model. And I can't think of a single teenager that doesn't want to make their own choices and feel independent from their parents.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was young, as well, my parents would always want me to stick close to them. Then, when I was a young teenager and they wouldn't let me go places without permission/supervision/etc, it frustrated me. Looking back on it now, I'm so glad they cared, and I know I will act the exact same way towards my future children.
This post about the victims of human trafficking is very interesting. Though sad, it does make sense to prey on the young since they are emotional and the most vulnerable. If I ever have a child, I will be more protective of them in public places such as malls because of this post.
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