Role of Technology in Facilitating the Crime of Trafficking in Persons

Abstract

Statistics have shown increasing trend of the crime of “trafficking in persons”, in various parts of the world, including China, Iran, Russia, Sudan, Syria, Malaysia and few others. Sometimes known as “human trafficking” or “modern slavery”, past research has pointed that the use of technology is predominant in leading to the crime of trafficking in persons. In the era of information society and network society alike, technology is not only resorted to for the advantage of the users, but such also as removing geographical boundaries, enhanced efficiencies, communication, and commerce. On the other hand, it also works against the benefit on humankind, particularly in this study, in facilitating the crime of trafficking in persons. Henceforth, this study investigates the role of technology in facilitating the crime of trafficking in persons. The methodology engaged in this study is doctrinal research, involving review of literature, statistics, government reports, archival documents and relevant cases on human trafficking. The study found that technology plays a significant role in facilitating human trafficking from four main dimensions, being (1) recruitment and advertisement, (2) transportation, (3) exploitation, and (4) financial management. At each of these dimensions, technology becomes the enabler and communication tool to empower perpetrators in engaging in the crime of trafficking in persons. The findings of the study are significant to contribute to the body of knowledge in the areas of cybercrimes and trafficking in persons. Hopefully, the findings of the study would shed light into future research on these key areas, particularly towards achieving the 16th goal of the United Nation’s sustainable development goals for peace, justice and strong institutions (SDG-16).