ISP is a human rights based approach that emphasizes treatment and support for victims of human trafficking, while holding buyers and traffickers accountable for these crimes.
Evidence shows that victims most often fall prey to traffickers as a result of childhood abuse, poverty, grooming, coercion, and/or betrayal, rather than free choice. Trafficking is inherently violent and women should not be criminalized for the exploitation and abuse they endure. Getting out is difficult and a criminal record makes it even harder. Victims should be cleared of previous convictions for offenses related to being trafficked.
Specialized long-term therapeutic services, such as those provided by The Shelter for Abused Women & Children, must be readily available to victims of human trafficking. These services must be non-judgmental and include support, housing, legal advice, addiction services, counseling, education, training, and childcare as they transition to a life free from trafficking and abuse.
The purchase and attempted purchase of human beings for sex is a criminal offence and a violation of human rights. Stronger legislation and penalties should be mandated to reduce the demand that drives sex trafficking.
To be effective, ISP must be accompanied by:
- A widespread public information campaign.
- Preventative education programs in schools (currently mandated by
the Florida Department of Education). - Training for law enforcement, judiciary, and front-line workers in education,
local government, medical professionals and social service workers. - Effective laws against traffickers and sex buyers with penalties that
reflect the enormous damage they cause. - Consistent implementation across the country.
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