Human trafficking : the international and national scenario

Abstract

Human trafficking is a very sensitive issue because it crosses contemporary anxieties concerning transnational (organised) crime and human rights abuses and the in/ability of states, regional groupings and international organisations to control any of these. Although human trafficking has been around since the early 1900s, it is only in the last decade or so that the international community is stepping up its forces to establish an effective legal regime to fight what has become to be known as 'a modem form of slavery'. Nevertheless, the reality is that the measures being set up to combat trafficking are proving to be inadequate and largely ineffective mostly due to the unintended consequences of particular measures. Moreover, the lack of theoretical and empirical research on the problem constrains the attainment of watertight and effective responses. Thus, this thesis aims to study the nature and gravity of the problem and consider the legal implications involved, exposing in particular the rather vulnerable position of the trafficked victim. Furthermore, it concludes with an examination of the extent of the problem in Malta and with a detailed analysis of the existing legislation in force with proposals for modifications or amendments.