Transnational human trafficking in Central Asia: Scale, causes and solutions

Abstract

Human trafficking is a severe transnational issue in Central Asia, where vulnerable populations, particularly women, children, and migrant workers, are frequently trafficked for sexual exploitation, forced labour, and other forms of abuse. The purpose of this study was to examine the dynamics of transnational crime in the Central Asian region and to systematise recommendations for minimising the risks of human trafficking. This study employed statistical data in addition to legislative documents, reports from civil society organisations, and regional mapping studies, utilised qualitative analysis and statistical methods to assess the efficacy of anti-trafficking initiatives in Central Asia. The research findings revealed considerable variations in anti-trafficking initiatives across Central Asian countries. Kazakhstan has achieved significant advancements in victim support systems and legislative frameworks, whilst Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan persist in facing challenges related to insufficient victim identification and assistance infrastructure. Trafficking routes in the area are varied, with victims being exploited in neighbouring countries like Russia and Turkey, as well as more distant locations such as the United Arab Emirates and India. Women and children are the most susceptible demographics, with an excessive proportion of trafficking victims emerging from economically deprived homes. The research highlighted the critical necessity for increased inter-agency collaboration, refined data-gathering systems, and robust victim protection protocols. Moreover, it underscored the necessity of using international best practices to efficiently address human trafficking throughout Central Asia. These findings can inform policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and nongovernmental organisations in Central Asia and abroad to formulate more focused, coordinated strategies for combatting human trafficking, especially through enhanced victim identification and protection mechanisms