What is Trafficking?

Written by Tanya Pearrell

Trafficking as defined by the US government is “a form of modern-day slavery in which traffickers use force, fraud, or coercion to control victims for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex acts or labor services against his/her will.” It is important to note that there are two different types of trafficking - sex trafficking and labor trafficking. Also extremely significant is that when a victim is under the age of 18 there is no need to prove force, fraud or coercion for it to be sex trafficking.

Breaking down the definition, let’s look at the three things used by traffickers to control their victims. First is force.

This is often the easiest to prove because it’s visible. It is something physical used to make it easier to control victims. It may be beatings, rape, or actual physical restraint.

The second method is fraud. This could be the offer of a job that does not exist, or is not properly described, such as modeling or acting (ex. It is actually pornography). It can also be misrepresenting feelings or a relationship. Claiming to love the victim. This can be demonstrated in a romantic relationship or familial trafficking situation.

And the final - coercion. Coercion is the mental and emotional side. It can involve threats to the victim or their family. It may be blackmail or humiliation (threats to release explicit photos or share information with family and friends). It can also include the use of drugs or alcohol to manipulate victims.

Follow along with us as we continue to educate and raise awareness of trafficking and exploitation. If you would like to go deeper, we would love to share with you in a small group setting or via Zoom. Please reach out - tanya@shessomebodysdaughter.org- to schedule a time.