Trafficking in Persons Report

Trafficking in Persons Report

Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Issues related to children and women

About the Report

• It is released by the US State Department
• It is world’s most comprehensive resource of governmental anti-trafficking efforts.

• It is also U.S. Government’s principal diplomatic tool to engage foreign governments on human trafficking.

What are the key findings of the Report?

• According 2021 report, the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in an increase in vulnerability to human trafficking and interrupted existing anti-traffic efforts.
  • Human trafficking involves the illegal transport of individuals by force or deception for the purpose of labour, sexual exploitation, or activities in which others benefit financially.
• India has not met the minimum standards to eliminate trafficking. The efforts made by the government are inadequate.
• Chinese government is engaged in widespread forced labour

What are the relevant Laws in India?

• Article 23 prohibits human trafficking and begar (forced labour without payment).
• Article 24 forbids employment of children below the age of 14 years in dangerous jobs like factories and mines.
• Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section:
  • Section 370 and 370A of IPC provide for comprehensive measures to counter the menace of human trafficking 
  • Sections 372 and 373 dealing with selling and buying of girls for the purpose of prostitution.