Human trafficking -- modern day slavery

Abstract

This article surveys the global phenomenon of human trafficking paying particular attention to the treatment of trafficked women and children. Various estimates place the number of trafficked women and children in the world at up to 4 million annually. They are trafficked for purposes of forced prostitution, labour and other forms of exploitation. The situation in North America is also focused on, as is the "mail-order bride" industry. The need to improve the wages and social support of migrant workers is highlighted, as is the need to develop anti-trafficking legislation based on a human rights framework.