What is sexual exploitation/sex trafficking?

The two most commonly known forms of human trafficking are sexual exploitation and forced labor.

Any instance in which an individual engages in a commercial sex act as the result of force, fraud, or coercion, is considered sex trafficking. Sex trafficking also includes the commercial sexual exploitation of children or minors (commonly abbreviated as CSEC).

Forced labor can occur within any form of labor or services, and it is defined as the subjection of individuals to involuntary servitude, peonage, debt bondage, or slavery. In all instances of forced labor, the individual works against his or her will, for little or no pay, and/or under the threat of some sort of punishment.

Trafficked persons may be forced or coerced to work in a variety of settings, both hidden and in plain sight. Some examples include factories, “sweatshops,” fields, brothels, “massage” parlors, brick kilns, online escort services, on street corners, as child soldiers, or in private homes. The most common industries associated with the trafficking in persons include: agriculture, construction, garment and textile manufacturing, catering and restaurants, domestic work, entertainment, and the sex industry. While human trafficking spans all demographics, trafficked persons most often come from positions of vulnerability.

Those most vulnerable to trafficking include those who:

  • Are homeless or have run away from home
  • Come from a low socio-economic background
  • Are a political, cultural, or ethnic minority
  • Have a history of sexual abuse, rape, or domestic violence
  • Are an immigrant
  • Have been subject to natural disasters, conflict, or political turmoil
  • Are in foster care

Traffickers use these vulnerabilities to their advantage and use a number of tactics to establish control over victims. Violence, isolation, threats, deception, manipulation, debt bondage, prospects of education, and romance are just a few methods used. Traffickers may operate alone with one or many victims, or maybe a part of an extensive criminal network. Examples of trafficking rings include gang members, family members, pimps, business owners, or smugglers.

This information is adapted from information provided by the Polaris Project. 

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