An Introduction to Human Trafficking - United Nations Office on ...

2. Impact: the human and social consequences of
human trafficking
The human and social consequences of trafficking are compelling. From the physical abuse
and <strong>to</strong>rture of victims <strong>to</strong> the psychological and emotional trauma, <strong>to</strong> the economic and
political implications of unabated crime, the impact on individuals and society is clearly
destructive and unacceptable.
The Vienna Forum will explore the impact of human trafficking on the lives of individuals
and their communities. Participants will share experiences and focus on the consequences
of human trafficking <strong>to</strong> victims, including the violence they experience, the
adverse health effects, the social stigmatization and the risk of revictimization.
3. Action: innovative approaches <strong>to</strong> solving
complex problems
The <strong>Trafficking</strong> Pro<strong>to</strong>col provides a comprehensive strategic approach <strong>to</strong> combating trafficking
in human beings. Implementation of the measures described in the Pro<strong>to</strong>col,
remains uneven however. A lack of clarity related <strong>to</strong> even basic terms and definitions,
national political concerns and uncertainty regarding what measures work and what do
not have contributed <strong>to</strong> a lack of systematic and consistent implementation, and sustainable
action. Participants will be able <strong>to</strong> review major global anti-trafficking strategies and
national responses, sharing from their own experiences and identifying elements that constitute
best practices.
Background papers
In order <strong>to</strong> provide participants with a common starting point for debate and dialogue,
UNODC commissioned the three following background papers, each addressing one of
the major themes of the conference, and drafted by three leading anti-trafficking experts.
The first paper, on vulnerability, challenges current working definitions of prevention and
the practical emphasis on public awareness as the primary <strong>to</strong>ol <strong>to</strong> prevent the occurrence
of this crime. The author maintains that an expanded understanding of prevention <strong>to</strong>
include the vulnerability of at-risk individuals and the fostering of an environment where
crime cannot prosper will assist in the development of comprehensive prevention
strategies.
The second paper, on the impact of trafficking, outlines the many areas where trafficking
affects our lives. The author includes discussions of the consequences of trafficking on
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