Human trafficking the situation in the republic of Armenia

Abstract

Human trafficking is a crime against humanity. It is an extremely grave offense against an individual leading to serious violations of the physical and mental integrity of the victims. Human trafficking is one of the most dynamic, adaptable, opportunistic criminal activities which takes advantage of conflicts, humanitarian disasters and the vulnerability of people in situations of crisis. After the disintegration of Soviet Union, Armenia like other post-Soviet countries experienced a whole range of hardships and difficulties in both economic, political and social life. Bad socio-economic conditions, lack of opportunities and gender discrimination forced many people to leave the country often falling prey to the network of traffickers. Now, after two decades the situation has changed, however human trafficking remains a serious issue requiring adequate response and measures. The aim of the following policy paper is to study human trafficking and its underlying causes keeping the main focus on the current situation concerning human trafficking in the Republic of Armenia. The counter-trafficking measures and activities undertaken by the state and non-state actors in Armenia to address the problem will be studied. The paper analyses the current situation on the basis of secondary and primary data followed by identification of the main gaps and problems needed to be addressed for effective fight against trafficking. In the end recommendations will be put forth based on the results of the analyses and on the existing problems.