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Protocol to Prevent, Repress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially
Women and Children
ABSTRACT
Human trafficking is a global phenomenon that continues to affect millions of people each year, and
the exploitation of vulnerable people for financial gain is a serious violation of human rights. In this
sense, the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Human Trafficking is a key tool in the fight against
this scourge. The objective of this scientific article is to delve into the definition and different forms of
human trafficking, as well as the general need to introduce special protocols for the prevention and
eradication of human trafficking, as well as analyze the effectiveness and limitations of these measures
in practice. Human trafficking is defined as the use of force, fraud, or coercion to recruit, transport,
transfer, place, or receive people for the ultimate purpose of exploitation. In this catastrophic reality,
there are various forms of exploitation, such as sex trafficking, forced labor and organ trafficking, each
of which violates human dignity and threatens social stability. It is important to understand the
underlying factors of human trafficking, including poverty, lack of educational opportunities, political
instability, and persistent gender inequalities that make certain groups and communities chronically
vulnerable to trafficking. The impact of human trafficking goes beyond the direct victim and has a
significant impact on society as a whole. In addition to the obvious physical and psychological damage
inflicted on the victims, ranging from serious injuries to mental and emotional suffering, this
phenomenon also gives rise to liberal and systematic economic exploitation of those affected. Likewise,
human trafficking promotes corruption, undermines the rule of law, undermines social cohesion and
creates an environment that promotes impunity and violations of fundamental rights. In this context,
the effective implementation of the Protocol to prevent, suppress and punish trafficking in human beings
is crucial. This international instrument provides a comprehensive legal framework for the prevention,
investigation, prosecution and assistance of victims of human trafficking, as well as establishes
minimum standards that countries must meet to effectively combat this crime. However, its
effectiveness is inevitably limited by various obstacles, ranging from lack of resources and institutional
capacity to corruption and social apathy. In conclusion, although the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and
Punish Trafficking in Human Beings is an important step to address this serious problem, its effective
implementation requires a strong commitment from States, civil society and the public. A
comprehensive and sustainable response to this global challenge requires a multi-pronged approach that
addresses both the structural causes of trafficking and the immediate needs of victims.
Keywords: intervention protocol, trafficking and smuggling, women, girls, boys, adolescents
Artículo recibido 23 febrero 2024
Aceptado para publicación: 25 marzo 2024