Anti-Human Trafficking Responses in Ethiopia: Legal Frameworks and Local Practices the Case of Saesi’e Tsada-Emba Wereda, Eastern Tigray
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Date
2017-05
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Currently transnational human trafficking is affecting almost all countries of the world and Ethiopia is not an exception. Thousands of Ethiopians are exposed to devastating challenges and multitude atrocities in the deserts, sea routes as well as in destination countries. Though the government of Ethiopia had enacted a comprehensive anti-human trafficking law, ratified a number of international conventions, and has been making counteracting efforts, human trafficking is still increasing in Ethiopia. Hence, this study questions why? And aims to assess the anti-human trafficking legal frameworks and examine the local practices particularly, in Saesi’e Tsada-emba Wereda. In doing so, the study had critically analyzed the major anti-human trafficking laws, proclamations, documents, provisions, policies, manuals and action plans. Then the undergoing anti-human trafficking activities were examined in line with the existing legal frameworks. To obtain the primary data, in-depth interviews were made with purposively selected practitioners and victim returnees. Besides, focus group discussion was made with residents of the study area. Consequently, findings of the study show, the issue of human trafficking is mainly connected to individuals’ desire to migrate illegally as an ‘exit strategy’ from poverty, unemployment and lack of economic opportunities in their local area. Though attempts were made to create awareness, provide loans and prosecute traffickers, these attempts could not reduce the problem. Lack of coordination, capacity, commitment, and appropriate amount of resources are the main reasons behind. In general, it can be concluded that the existing anti-human trafficking legal frameworks are far from a straightforward matter in practice because, the reality is more fragmented at the ground. This study argues that anti-human trafficking responses can be successful if interventions aimed at investing in individuals’ all rounded development. Therefore, addressing the practical vulnerability issues of the potential migrants is central to enhance the impact and efficacy of the undergoing anti-human trafficking responses.
Key Words: Anti-human trafficking responses, human Trafficking, illegal migration, legal frameworks, local practices, Saesi‟e Tsada-emba Wereda, Vulnerability
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Keywords
Anti-Human Trafficking Responses, Human Trafficking, Illegal Migration, Legal Frameworks, Vulnerability