Without data we are fighting blind: the need for human security data in defence sector responses to human trafficking

Abstract

The increasing recognition of human trafficking’s connection to conflict and instability have led to a concerted drive to bring it further into the remit of defence actors. This article provides a discussion on how defence actors can use open data from the humanitarian sector to develop a holistic understanding of human security that can bolster their efforts to counter human trafficking and move from reactive to preventative responses. The article also discusses the recently developed ‘Fusion Doctrine’ within the UK and its implications for the meaningful inclusion of humanitarian perspectives in defence planning and analysis.