Human Trafficking Risk and Protection Policies in Emergency Disaster Situation: A Qualitative Research Study with the Earthquake Victims of Turkey
Ezgi Yaman Kennedy, PhD | September 21 | 9:45-10:45 am
Topic: Research, International | Knowledge Level: Advanced
In February, 2023 two strong earthquakes struck southeast Turkey and northwest Syria. Over 3,000 aftershocks were reported. Thousands of people have lost their lives and tens of thousands were injured. Those who have survived faced extremely cold weather with big challenges in accessing shelter and food (UN, 2023). Natural disasters are distinctive and will have a diverse impact on different locations and nations depending on their infrastructure and capabilities. Many things could happen in the event of a natural disaster, but in general, the risk of trafficking rises. Traffickers frequently target persons who have been displaced and may try to take advantage of those who are receiving assistance or aid. Both residents in the damaged area and those trying to leave disaster regions can experience the effects of trafficking (International Organization for Migration, 2015). A disaster may require relocation, and any ensuing instability can raise a person’s risk of being trafficked (Bales, 2007). The main aim of this research study is to focus on this risky situation among earthquake victims who lost their housing, jobs, and loved ones and were severely injured, potentially leading to human trafficking, and to discuss the victim protection policies in emergency response. The methodology of the study includes a literature review and in-depth semi-structured interviews with snowball sampling method by qualitative research. The study is currently being conducted and the findings and implications will be discussed during the presentation.
Presentation Objectives:
· Provide an overview of the research study, including main questions, methodology, and findings
· Discuss the risky and vulnerable situations (e.g., human trafficking) disaster situations have on individuals and the victim protection policies in emergency response