Trafficking in Persons and the Information and Communication Technolog: A Curse or A Blessing for Combating Trafficking

Abstract

Trafficking in Persons is a global pandemic that has continued to undermine human rights growth and development. What is even more baffling is that cyberspace, which holds more promises for humanity, is flamboyantly beautifying the complexity of the heinous and despicable crime by becoming a viable tool for recruiting, transferring, and the exploitation of trafficked persons. This is primarily through the internet. Traffickers are now cashing in on the myriads of opportunities technology provides to perpetuate their illicit activities in the comfort of their living room, with a great shield of anonymity. This paper discussed trafficking in persons, information and communication technology, and human rights as relevant concepts. The article also examined the legal framework on human trafficking, primarily focused on international instruments. The article further discussed some reasons why traffickers harness and use technology for their activities and how technology can be used as part of the solution to trafficking in persons. It was recommended that despite the use of technology by traffickers to achieve success in their inhuman and illegitimate trade, ICT could be used to achieve great fits for human development and advancement. One of these is the need to use ICT to combat trafficking through tracing suspected trafficking activities on the internet, conducting investigations, and generating evidence for prosecuting traffickers.