Sex trafficking is not just a problem in developing countries according to Dr. Obi Ebbe, professor, Department of Sociology, Anthropology & Geography, who has published numerous articles on global trafficking and also a consultant of the United Nations International Scientific and Professional Advisory Council in Transnational Crime, Terrorism, Corruption, and Human Trafficking. Many women and young girls are brought to the United States and held against their will.
Ebbe’s presentation at UTC research week explained the forces that fuel international human sex trafficking and how to combat them.
“Political crisis, war, and poverty have made trafficking a lucrative industry for people who want to make money by any means. Some of the most trafficking is done in South-East Asian countries and also in former Soviet satellite countries,” said Ebbe during his lecture.
In South-East Asia, Ebee said many underage girls are used in the sexual tourism industry. In many countries women and their families are told that there are legitimate jobs in other countries, but instead they end up as sex workers.
Ebbe said more international cooperation along with other measures will help reduce trafficking.
“We must enact stiffer laws, reduce poverty, and improve education,” Ebbe said.
