Human Trafficking in Turkey: Findings from Northeastern Anatolia

Abstract

This study is based on field research implemented in four cities in Northeastern Anatolia, Turkey. It focused mainly on the knowledge, attitudes and practices of different stakeholders with regard to human trafficking. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews conducted among 142 interviewees representing different sectors. Human trafficking in the region seems to occur solely in the form of sex trafficking of women. Findings suggest that the knowledge level of most officials, NGOs and community members is rather low, which may lead to stigmatizing and discriminatory attitudes towards trafficked women in the region. Anti-trafficking activities thus far have been limited and more remains to be done to combat human trafficking more effectively and more efficiently.