Title: Human trafficking: a global multi-billion dollar criminal industry

Authors: Katherine Taken Smith; Hannah M. Martin; L. Murphy Smith

Addresses: Department of Management and Marketing, Murray State University, 451 Business Building, Murray, KY 42071, USA ' Hutson School of Agriculture, Murray State University, Murray, KY 42071, USA ' Department of Accounting, Murray State University, 351 Business Building, Murray, KY 42071, USA

Abstract: Human trafficking is the exploitation of people as property for forced labour, sexual exploitation, and organ trade. Human trafficking is a major crime industry, generating about $32 billion in revenues annually. This study examines the global scope of human trafficking and its negative effect on world society. This study tests the relationship between human trafficking and a country's level of corruption. Results indicate that higher levels of corruption are associated with higher levels of human trafficking. Corruption though is only one factor in human trafficking; ultimately, ending human trafficking requires changing peoples' attitudes and actions. Human trafficking exists because there is a demand for the products and services connected to it.

Keywords: human trafficking; corruption levels; sex trafficking; forced labour; sexual exploitation; organ trade.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPLAP.2014.063006

International Journal of Public Law and Policy, 2014 Vol.4 No.3, pp.293 - 308

Published online: 21 Nov 2014 *

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