How to recognise human trafficking
Identifying risk factors and warning signs
Indicators are elements useful for identifying potential victims of trafficking, identified on the basis of field experience. These indicators serve as a compass to guide professionals in identifying potential victims of trafficking. They should not be taken literally or as a checklist, as there is no single “type” of victim, and each person’s story is complex and unique. Indicators are meant to support observation and assessment, but careful judgement, sensitivity, and attention to context are always essential.
Important: You do not need all signs. Human trafficking situations vary. Even one or a few indicators can be enough to raise concern. If something feels wrong, it is worth seeking help or advice.
1. Controlled Movements
- You may not be allowed to leave the house except to go to work.
- While working, you may be monitored by the exploiters both in person and by phone. You may also be accompanied everywhere to prevent contact with outsiders.
- You may have limited or no social interaction and limited contact with family or people outside your immediate environment.
- You may have limited or monitored access to your phone, social media, or messaging apps. Messages, calls, or location tracking may be used to control or intimidate you.
- You may not have the freedom to choose where to live. You may live with the “maman” or with the exploiter’s associates or collaborators. Your daily schedule and movements may be strictly controlled, including breaks, meals, or bathroom use.
2. Document and Identity Control
- You may not be in possession of any personal documents; your passport or ID may have been taken by the exploiters.
- You may be assigned another name or told to claim you are the wife of a man who is actually your exploiter.
- You may not be allowed to have or keep money for yourself.
- You may have false documents provided by the exploiters.
3. Violence and Threats
- You may have been subjected to physical, sexual, or psychological violence to force your submission.
- You may experience threats, blackmail, or coercion.
- Threats of retaliation may target you, your family, or your children if you try to escape.
- Fear of law enforcement may be instilled through false information or intimidation. Threats may also be related to debt, criminal charges, or harm to your community or friends.
4. Working Conditions
- The work promised during recruitment may not be the work you actually find upon arrival.
- You may have no freedom to decide when, how, or for how long to work; working hours and conditions may be imposed on you.
- You may have no days off and may be forced to work under harsh or unsafe conditions.
- Your earnings may be completely withheld, and you may receive little or no payment.
- You may be exposed to risks that endanger your health and safety.
- You may experience insults, harassment, or damage typical of certain types of work. You may also be forced to perform sexual or degrading acts as part of the work, or pressured to meet quotas under threat.
5. Living Conditions
- You may be constantly monitored and may live in the exploiter’s home or in poor/inadequate accommodation.
- You may have no opportunity for independent contact with the outside world.
- Possession of a mobile phone, if allowed, may be used to control you.
- You may have no access to medical care and limited contact with family or friends. Basic needs such as food, hygiene, and sleep may be restricted to increase your dependency.
6. Dependency on Exploiters
- You may be dependent on exploiters due to fear, blackmail, or coercion.
- Threats may be directed at your life, your family, or your children.
- You may distrust authorities or fear being handed over to them.
- You may be afraid to disclose your immigration status. You may feel psychologically trapped, believing you cannot survive or escape without the exploiter’s control.
7. Behavioral and Psychological Signs
- You may tell confused or illogical stories.
- You may repeat the same stories, often in a rehearsed or inconsistent way.
- You may show signs of anxiety, depression, or fearfulness.
- You may appear withdrawn or submissive and avoid eye contact.
- You may be reluctant to speak in front of certain people (possibly the exploiter). You may appear hyper-vigilant, hesitant, or overly compliant due to fear of retaliation.
8. Recruitment and Background
- You may come from areas known for human trafficking.
- The cost of transport to the destination country may have been paid by facilitators, who then require repayment through work or other means.
- You may have been promised a job, marriage, or better life that does not materialize.
- You may have been misled about your legal status, housing, or employment to induce compliance.
9. Health and Reproductive Indicators
- You may have frequent abortions or multiple pregnancies in a short period.
- You may have untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- You may show signs of physical abuse, such as bruises, burns, or scars.
- You may experience malnutrition or poor general health due to overwork, neglect, or deprivation.
- You may show evidence of sexual exploitation, such as pain, discomfort, or injuries in the genital area. You may also show signs of chronic stress, sleep deprivation, or self-harm behaviors.
10. Other Warning Signs
- You may lack personal belongings or be unable to manage your money.
- You may give inconsistent explanations about your life or employment situation.
- You may feel fear of police, social services, or healthcare providers.
- You may be isolated from your community, friends, and family. You may display distrust, fear, or reluctance even in safe environments, reflecting previous coercion or trauma.
