|
Sunday Schedule
Program
Annual
Meeting
Home
|
|
Sunday, January 5, 2003
|
8:30-10:15 a.m.
Section on International Human Rights
- George Eugene Edwards, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Chair
- Michele R. Pistone, Villanova University, Program Chair
|
Wilson C
Marriott Wardman Park Hotel
Mezzanine Level |
Human Trafficking: A Modern Form of Slavery
Moderator:
Michele R. Pistone, Villanova University
Speakers: - Nora V. Demleitner, St. Mary's University
- Ann Jordan, Director, Initiative Against Trafficking in Persons, International Human Rights Law Group, Washington, D.C.
The practice of trafficking in persons is one of the darkest aspects of globalization. Despite increased governmental and international awareness of this practice, trafficking becomes more widespread and insidious every day. Conservative estimates reveal that worldwide at least 700,000 persons each year, including women and children, fall victim to this modern form of slavery. Although experts believe that number is much higher, it is difficult to measure an industry that hides in the shadows. The U.S. State Department, estimates that 45,000 to 50,000 people are trafficked each year in the United States alone.
Traffickers usually prey on their victims with promises of good jobs and wages. While the practice is rampant in the sex trade, it also extends to trafficking of persons into domestic servitude, bonded sweatshop labor, or other debt bondage. Victims may also be forced to work in factories, fields, and restaurants. Typically, once the victims reach their destination country, their identity and travel documents are taken away by the smugglers and they are informed of a smuggling debt they must repay, which can exceed tens of thousands of dollars. Those who are trafficked are often afraid to approach law enforcement officials for fear of deportation and also of retribution against themselves or family members.
The panelists, experts in the field of human trafficking, will discuss the global trafficking phenomenon and the U.S. and international responses. They will also provide ideas about how law schools can get involved in this fascinating and important field of international human rights law.
Business Meeting at Program Conclusion |
|