THE EXIGENT STRUGGLE AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING: A CALL FOR A PARADIGM SHIFT OR REFINEMENT IN RESPONSE?

Abstract

Human trafcking (HT), or modern-day slavery as some also refer to it, is omnipresent. HT is considered a human rights violation. Since the enactment of the Palermo Protocol in 2001, there has been no shortage of local, national, and international responses to combating crime. Efforts to combat human trafcking fall into four main areas (commonly referred to as the 4Ps) - prevention, prosecution, protection, and partnership. Each has its strengths and limitations. The creation of Task Forces to combat human trafcking more effectively has also increased, but they have not been standardized or evaluated in a collective or concerted manner. This article offers an overview of the 4Ps and then provides recommendations on how publicprivate partnership Tasks Forces might develop a famework to strengthen any of the Ps they align with. Where possible, a reference to the situation in Vietnam is made.