Human Trafficking and Informal Economy – Belgian Experiences
Purpose:
The purpose of this paper is to analyze the role of human trafficking in informal economy and to present it as a global issue. The starting-point is to define human trafficking and the role of informal economy in relation to human trafficking. Informal economy includes informal employment giving rise to synchronous emergence of sexual and labor exploitation facets of human trafficking. The paper also presents how Belgium faces problems caused by the trafficking aimed at sexual and labor exploitation and, in that regard, shows the Belgian system of protection of potential victims in the light of its implementation in Slovenia.
Design/Methods/Approach:
After a review of the domestic and foreign literature, the paper analyzes the existing cognition of the issue and, based on a relevant classification method and the Belgium case analysis, applies it to the Slovenian territory.
Findings:
Labor exploitation is a result of complex business activities by various suppliers and subcontractors which can be monitored worldwide. Such companies must have established all elements of business organization (facilities, proper working hours, proper employment documentation, etc.). Human trafficking violates international human rights and, as such, often defies international work standards. In addition to being exposed to various forms of violence, victims of human trafficking are also forced to take part in sex industry, forced prostitution, or in other forms of sexual violence. Law enforcement, penal policy, and, above all, prevention should provide better support in the struggle against such exploitation.
Originality/Value:
Human trafficking includes various forms of exploitation that make people victims of modern slavery. Though human trafficking is a widespread organized crime activity, the general public still perceives it in terms of its mere sexual exploitation attributes. The paper explains the link between human trafficking and informal economy aspects that include other forms of exploitation.
UDC: 343.3/.7(493)
Keywords: trafficking, informal economy, labour exploitation, sexual exploitation, organized crime
Full article
in Slovene