Counter-trafficking

IOM is instrumental in both the prevention of trafficking and the protection and assistance of victims. To this end, it conducts applied and action-oriented counter-trafficking research. Numerous research projects are developed in Field Offices and coordinated with the Counter Trafficking Division.

  • Data on trafficking are compiled into a special database, the Counter-Trafficking Module Database (CTM Database). The CTM Database facilitates the management of assistance, voluntary return and reintegration activities for victims of trafficking and strengthens the research capacity and understanding of the causes, processes, trends and consequences of trafficking.
  • In 2008, IOM will publish a number of in-depth narrative reports which form part of the IOM Global Human Trafficking Thematic Research Series.  Drawing upon both quantitative and non-personal qualitative data held within the IOM global database, the series will specifically address contemporary issues on human trafficking.  Thematic priority areas include: re-trafficking, trafficking and social exclusion, the trafficking of males, and traffickers and organized crime.
  • The project "Development of Guidelines for the collection of data on trafficking in human beings, including comparable indicators" (2008) is an IOM–Austrian Federal Ministry of Interior–European Union project aiming to create a basis for improved collection, comparison and sharing of data. The project will produce a standardized set of guidelines and should lead to a unitary system on data collection across the European Union.
  • As part of the UN Global Initiative to Fight Human Trafficking (UN.GIFT) expert research  papers mapped the current knowledge on trafficking (2008)
  • Gender dimensions of trafficking are explored in an innovative study on male trafficking in Ukraine and Belarus (2008) as well as in a research exploring the dimensions of trafficking in men from East Africa and the Horn to South Africa (2008).
  • "In-Depth Applied Research to Better Understand the Demand Side of Trafficking in Persons" (2007) carries out research to better understand the linkages between the demand for sexual services and trafficking and forced prostitution.
  • Trafficking and the 2006 World Cup in Germany is a pilot study gathering reliable information concerning fears about a potential increase in trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation to Germany during the 2006 World Cup and examines ways in which authorities can reduce the risk of trafficking during major international events.
  • Data and Research on Human Trafficking: A Global Survey (2005) is a publication providing a general analysis and update on research on trafficking.
  • The Beyond Clearing Point: Second Annual Report on Victims of Trafficking in South-Eastern Europe (2005) and Fertile Fields: Trafficking in Persons in Central Asia (2005) present regional insights.