Epi-criminological responses to human trafficking of young women and girls for involuntary prostitution in South Africa

Abstract

This is a scholarly analysis of the epidemiological criminology measures applied by South Africa to combat human trafficking of women and girls for involuntary prostitution. It comprises a description of the range of services provided by South African and international organizations and institutions responding to human trafficking of women and girls for involuntary prostitution. Firstly, the sources of information collected to assemble this paper are described. Secondly, the theoretical framework of epi-criminology and the conceptual framework of human trafficking for involuntary prostitution are explained. Thirdly, criminological and public health challenges facing South Africa are discussed briefly as factors giving rise to human trafficking of young women and girls for involuntary prostitution. The fourth aspects discussed are epi-criminological responses, and challenges facing South Africa when responding to human trafficking of women and girls are described. Although victims of human trafficking would still remain hidden with legislation, in the absence of the Human Trafficking Law South Africa cannot determine the extent of the crime. In addition, an ambiguous approach to prostitution prevails in communities and among South African Police Service (SAPS) officers. Furthermore, it is possible that poverty alleviation programmes aimed at mediating poverty and unemployment challenges may not be reaching the targeted populations. To conclude, an emphasis on a multi-faceted approach to address human trafficking of women and girls is advised. South Africa is currently applying a prevention, protection of victims, and prosecution of traffickers approach to respond to human trafficking of girls for involuntary prostitution.