Human Trafficking: Protecting Human Rights in the Trafficking Victims Protection Act

Abstract

Trafficking in persons is the most widespread manifestation of modern-day slavery, with an estimated four million people trafficked worldwide every year. Modern technology and globalization enable networks of criminals to operate internationally and prey upon those who are impoYerished and vulnerable. Craig McGill's book describes the various ways in which countries seek to combat illegal immigration and trafficking by strengthening law enforcement, and suggests that these "solutions" do not address the source of the problem. This Book Review argues that anti-trafficking strategies must view trafficking not only from a law enforcement perspective directed to the perpetrators, but also from a human rights perspective by adequately protecting and assisting victims of human trafficking. The Trafficking Victims Protection Act recognizes the need to protect the victims' human rights, but fails to offer the comprehensive protection policy necessary to be effective.