Citation

Roth V. Nordisk Tidsskrift for Kriminalvidenskab 2012; 99(2): 238-264.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article seeks to explain why trafficking in human beings for the purpose of sexual exploitation is so difficult to identify in Finland. Explanations are sought, for example, in the definitional uncertainties and restricted applications and interpretations of the penal provisions on human trafficking, and in their overlap with the penal provisions on pandering. Explanations are also sought in the legal history and context of prostitution, which makes violence less objectionable in the eyes of the legal system. The inability to identify prostitution-related trafficking may also be influenced by the consensus-based policy of equality, which can undermine prosecution of female-specific problems such as violence against women. The author argues that legislation must be amended and practices improved if they are to live up to legally binding international obligations. In addition, the author argues that counter-trafficking strategies and activities should be actively developed from a gender perspective so that all victims of human trafficking can be correctly identified and assisted irrespective of whether they have fallen victim to sexual or labour exploitation.