Trafficking in Women in Africa: Analysis of Approaches to Policy

Abstract

<p>Trafficking in women has been identified as one of the worst forms of human rights violations. Heightened awareness points to the increasing scope of this phenomenon that extends into almost every part of the world. Despite a lack of available, reliable research, Africa has recently been recognized as a region in which the incidence of trafficking in women is particularly alarming. This paper contends that as African govemments currently face the challenging task of developing policies to prevent and suppress trafficking in humans, an analysis of current approaches used to address the problem is of critical importance. This is especially crucial since many criticize current anti-trafficking measures as not only inadequate and ineffective, but as further exacerbating situations of abuse and further undermining fundamental human rights of the women who are trafficked. This study argues that any viable policy developed in Africa with the intention of combating trafficking must have the needs of the victims of trafficking front and centre.</p> <p>This paper lays the foundation for analysis by first exploring the current situation and relevant issues pertaining to trafficking in women, with a focus on Africa. It then analyzes four different approaches to developing anti-trafficking measures by considering different conceptualizations of trafficking, by exploring the strategies proposed under each approach, by unmasking underlying political motives, and by examining whose needs, whether those of the state or those of the women, are ultimately addressed. The strengths and weaknesses of each approach are identified. This paper contends that reframing current studies on trafficking in women based on this type of analysis establishes the necessary groundwork for the needs of women trafficked to be meaningfully considered. Finally, this paper highlights areas of future consideration. It emphasizes ways in which gender-responsive and rights-based perspectives might be integrated in order that measures taken should not adversely affect those women who are trafficked.</p>