Myths
MYTH #1:
Human Trafficking and Human Smuggling are the Same
FACT:
Human Trafficking and smuggling are not the same. Smuggling always involves transportation and the crossing or penetration of an international border. Human Trafficking does not have to involve any form of transportation; a person can be a victim of human trafficking within their own community. Human Trafficking is a human rights issue and includes the elements of force, fraud, and coercion. It is important to note that while they are not the same, a smuggling situation can become Human Trafficking, but only when there is force, fraud, and coercion.
MYTH #2:
All Trafficking is Sex Trafficking
FACT:
While Sex Trafficking receives most of the media attention, there are actually more cases of labor trafficking worldwide. Labor trafficking takes many forms and can include: involuntary domestic servitude, pan handling, construction work, restaurant work, maid services in hotels and homes, lawn services, agricultural work, even a boys choir.
MYTH #3:
All Prostitution is Human Trafficking
FACT:
While all “child prostitution” is human trafficking, not all adult prostitution is human trafficking. For various reasons, some people in prostitution voluntarily enter into the trade and want to continue in the industry. We also find that some trafficking victims, who are freed, will return to prostitution. Distinguishing between adult prostitution and adults who are trafficked into prostitution is vital in effectively identifying and assisting victims.
Last updated: May 26th, 2010