Describing the Unobserved: Methodological Challenges in Empirical Studies on Human Trafficking

Abstract

In this paper we will discuss the production of various types of data on human trafficking analyse existing data and research and suggest methods for improving enhanced data collection techniques and developing new methodologies. We will focus both on the development of estimates of victims of trafficking as well as the production of data that describes the characteristics of this group. The discussion will be based on a review of publications on trafficking for sexual exploitation in Europe (Tyldum et al. forthcoming) as well as our own experiences from the study .Crossing Borders. on transnational prostitution and trafficking in Oslo. During our research we found some answers but also met with several questions and challenges relating to obtaining the best possible quality of data. We hope that our experience in this field may be of use to others working on the same topic a research field that indeed holds great challenges but through its urgency and importance also great rewards. (excerpt)