Is human trafficking a form of modern-day slavery?
Everyday, it is common to see youth queuing to be cleared to get a passport. Many of them are planning to go and work in the Middle East countries such as Oman and Qatar, among others. While they are always cautioned, it is difficult to tell who the next victim will be as many do not open up to security. Sadly, some end up as victims of human trafficking as soon as the plane lands in those countries.
Trafficking in human beings is a serious crime and a gross violation of human rights. In terms of gravity, human trafficking comes second after drug trafficking as the world’s worst crime. People involved in this criminality have their associates all over the world. But how different is this from migrant smuggling?
Human trafficking involves means such as force or deception with the aim of exploiting the potential victims. The aim of exploiting them is the “bulls’ eye” which differentiates it from migrant smuggling.
Is human-trafficking a form of modern-day slavery? The answer is yes, especially where people are trafficked for evil purposes. While some are trafficked for labour and sex, others are trafficked for purposes of extracting vital body organs to sustain “organ trade.’’ Imagine your kidney being taken away by either force or foul play after victims had been promised good jobs.
Victims of sexual trafficking abroad are found in forced homosexuality, forced prostitution in brothels; strip clubs; and massage parlours. Children may be trafficked for purposes of begging in cities or to be induced into illegal activities such as petty theft or terrorism.
Victims of labour trafficking end up in involuntary work environments; often with meagre or no pay compared to work one does.
Their wages are calculated to keep them in a slavery situation as many often work as maids, doing hard work in factories or in farms. Victims are literally prisoners at their place of work as they are not free to leave their work stations.
In some cases, the victim’s families are threatened by traffickers with the aim of creating fear in the hearts of the victims so that they do not report their conditions to the authorities. But is it possible for a potential victim to know what awaits them - poor living conditions and inhumane treatment? The answers to questions about who you are or what you are doing in that country, appear to be scripted or rehearsed.
Victims are unable to provide proof of their identity or have legal documents on them. All their vital documents such as passports and identity cards, among others, are withdrawn from them as soon as they reach their destination. Worse still, the victims are either paid little money or nothing at all.
D/ASP Benjamine Mudope,
Butalejja District
