T Tran

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  T commented on the article | over 2 years ago

  The Internet's Role in Human Trafficking

   

  
  

  First of all, thank you for bringing to the forefront the role that the Internet plays in human trafficking. Craigslist, online photo sharing, mobile technology, social network groups and chat rooms are simply "the tip of the trafficking network." Your insightful breakdown of how Internet technologies are used to facilitate human trafficking sheds light on the importance of being aware of how technology is actually used to victimize men, women and children not just in our own backyards-but globally. What began almost two decades ago as a means of exchanging child pornography over the internet has now evolved into a complex web and global community that has managed to use technology to further advance their interests from the virtual world into the real world. Having worked overseas for over a decade reorganizing manufacturing facilities, I have had the opportunity to witness first-hand the unspeakable impact and cruel consequences of human trafficking. Regardless of the country, the common denominators were extreme poverty and desperation. With conviction, I have returned to school to pursue a law degree to help prevent and combat this epidemic.

  
  

  After reading your blog, I am interested in hearing what you think of the roles that governments play in facilitating, and sometimes even encouraging this behavior for financial gains once it enters their jurisdiction. Although publically, no state would openly advocate human trafficking; behind closed doors, however, is a very different story. As I examined your blog, I also noticed that you mentioned the "good guys" needing to be more tech-savvy in order to be one step ahead of organized crime and individuals who engage in these illegal activities. However, according to UNICEF, an estimated $9.5 billion is generated annually from trafficking activities-that we know of. From my experience, I have found governments (especially those overseas) to be very uncooperative and indifferent to the problem since many consider sex trafficking to be another form of prostitution. In your opinion, what are the most effective approaches to combating human trafficking in a way that will lay the foundation to long-term improvements? Or do we have to rely on private, non-profits to get the job done?