Trafficking in Human Beings in Transition and Post-Conflict Countries

Citation:

Klopcic, Alja. 2004. "Trafficking in Human Beings in Transition and Post-Conflict Countries." Human Security Perspectives 1 (1): 7-12.

Author: Alja Klopcic

Abstract:

Transition and post-conflict societies with their negative side-products (e.g. organised crime, trafficking in human beings and corruption), which stem from the recent political and economic changes in the South Eastern European region are of particular concern to the international community - due to their cross-border effects. In the following essay, the author concentrates on trafficking in human beings as a regional and global problem and as a serious threat to the human security of women and children living in the poor areas of South Eastern Europe. 

Keywords: political corruption, migration, post-conflict reconstruction, human trafficking, organized crime

Annotation:

This essay examines how recent political and economic changes in the transition and post-conflict societies of the southeastern European region have led to massive migration and the emergence of organized crime, trafficking in human beings, and corruption. It traces trends and routes in human trafficking in the region after the fall of the Berlin Wall in the early 1990s, as refugees and economic migrants sought to enter Western Europe from economically weak countries in the East or from conflict-affected regions (the former Yugoslav republics).

The author posits that armed conflict (along with other post-cold war political changes) has weakened the individual nation-states, contributed to refugee flows and migration, and “difficult socioeconomic conditions that increased illegal activities,” including trafficking. (Annotation from Nelson, Sue. 2004. "Literature Review and Analysis Related to Human Trafficking in Post-Conflict Situations." USAID Report.)

Topics: Corruption, Displacement & Migration, Refugees, Gender, Women, Girls, Boys, Post-Conflict, Security, Trafficking, Human Trafficking Regions: Europe, Balkans, Eastern Europe, Southern Europe

Year: 2004