IDENTIFICATION AND INITIAL CARE PROCESS OF CHILD VICTIMS OF TRANSNATIONAL TRAFFICKING: A SOCIAL WORK PERSPECTIVE

Ajwang' Warria,Jean Triegaardt,Hanna Nel

doi:10.15270/50-4-390

Abstract

Child trafficking violates children’s rights and undermines their protection. Under-identification of child victims of trafficking has been reported to be a challenge globally and in South Africa. This article illustrates the process a social worker could apply when identifying child victims of transnational trafficking. Findings of the qualitative research reveal that there is no single point of entry for a trafficked child and thus there can be several actors in the identification process; it was also found that initial care and protection are also essential. The role of social workers in the identification-assessment-care process is highlighted.

Highlights

Child trafficking violates children’s rights and undermines their protection
In the definition of trafficking, this protocol acknowledged that children under the age of 18 years cannot give consent to exploitation. This definition was effected in the South African Prevention and Combating Trafficking in Persons Act (2013) to ensure that protection extends to trafficked children
Research on human trafficking in South Africa has been primarily carried out by UNICEF (2003), Martens, Pieczkowski and Van Vuuren-Smyth (2003), Allais et al (2010) and Molo Songololo (2000, 2003). The findings from these studies report that South Africa is a country of origin, transit and destination, and that the child victims are of both genders, with a majority being trafficked to South Africa for sexual and labour exploitation

Summary

INTRODUCTION

Child trafficking violates children’s rights and undermines their protection. The way that child trafficking is defined is of great significance in its identification, management and prevention. According to the United States Trafficking in Persons (US TIP) Report (2013) and UNICEF (2003), South Africa was reported as being a country of origin, transit and destination. Research on human trafficking in South Africa has been primarily carried out by UNICEF (2003), Martens, Pieczkowski and Van Vuuren-Smyth (2003), Allais et al (2010) and Molo Songololo (2000, 2003) The findings from these studies report that South Africa is a country of origin, transit and destination, and that the child victims are of both genders, with a majority being trafficked to South Africa for sexual and labour exploitation. Limited research on the identification of child victims of trafficking in South Africa is a cause for concern, because the South African Trafficking Act (2013) calls upon social workers to respond to, and provide support and assistance to, this vulnerable population.

DESCRIPTION OF ANALYSIS PROCESS

Child is not victim of trafficking

Findings

Refer case to social worker for further assistance