1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of Study
Human trafficking has become one of the most devastating social issues facing modern society, especially among young people who are often the primary targets. Defined by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) as the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of persons by means of threat, force, coercion, abduction, fraud, or deception for the purpose of exploitation, human trafficking continues to grow at an alarming rate globally (UNODC, 2020). Youth are particularly at risk due to a variety of socioeconomic vulnerabilities such as poverty, unemployment, lack of education, and social instability.
In many developing countries, including Nigeria, human trafficking thrives due to weak institutional frameworks, high levels of corruption, and porous borders. It is often disguised as legitimate migration for employment, education, or marriage, making it difficult to detect and prevent (Orakwe, 2018). The desire among young people to escape harsh economic realities, pursue better opportunities, or support their families financially often drives them to unknowingly fall into the traps of traffickers.
Reports by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) indicate that the majority of trafficking victims in Nigeria are between the ages of 15 and 24, many of whom are lured with promises of scholarships, jobs, or travel abroad (NAPTIP, 2023). The consequences of human trafficking are dire. Victims often suffer long-term psychological trauma, physical abuse, loss of personal freedom, and in many cases, death. It also contributes to the breakdown of societal values and undermines national security and economic development. Despite national and international efforts, including legal frameworks, and rehabilitation programs, the issue persists due to limited enforcement and insufficient public engagement (Eze, 2016).
According to UNODC (2020), human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights that continues to affect millions globally, with a significant impact on youth in various societies. The United Nations defines human trafficking as “the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring or receipt of persons, by means of the threat or use of force or other forms of coercion...for the purpose of exploitation” (UNODC, 2020). The youth population is particularly vulnerable due to factors such as poverty, unemployment, lack of education, family disintegration, peer pressure, and the quest for better living standards. In many developing nations, including Nigeria, human trafficking has become a disturbing trend, often disguised through promises of better job opportunities, education abroad, or modeling careers (Okonofua et al., 2004). Traffickers prey on the aspirations of young people, manipulating them into situations where their freedom and dignity are severely compromised.
The International Labour Organization (ILO, 2022) estimates that over 27.6 million people are subjected to forced labor and trafficking globally, with a substantial number being young individuals. In Nigeria, human trafficking has gained prominence as one of the major forms of transnational crime, especially affecting women and girls between the ages of 15 and 24 (NAPTIP, 2023). Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the prevalence, causes, and consequences of human trafficking among youth in society.
1.2 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that human trafficking among youth in society is a deeply disturbing and persistent problem that is destroying lives and undermining communities. The youth, often driven by poverty, unemployment, and a lack of opportunities, are being lured by traffickers with false promises of better jobs, education, or life abroad, only to find themselves trapped in situations of forced labor, sexual exploitation, and abuse (UNODC, 2020).
Furthermore, many victims suffer psychological trauma and physical harm, and their exploitation disrupts their potential contributions to society (Eze, 2016). Families and communities are left grappling with the loss and suffering of their young members, while society at large faces the challenge of reintegration and rehabilitation. In addition, the problem is compounded by weak enforcement of anti-trafficking laws, corruption, and inadequate support systems for victims (NAPTIP, 2023). It is against the backdrop that this study seeks to evaluate the extent and dynamics of human trafficking among youth, explore the factors that contribute to their vulnerability, and assess the effectiveness of existing measures.
1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence, causes, and effects of human trafficking among youth in society.
The specific objectives of the study are as follows:
- To analyze the key factors driving the shift from print journalism to digital media platforms.
- To assess the implications of digital media on the quality, credibility, and ethics of journalism.
- To investigate how traditional media organizations are adapting to digital transformation.
- To evaluate the effects of digital news consumption on audience behavior and expectations.
- To explore the challenges and opportunities presented by digital media for the future of traditional journalism.
1.4 Research Questions
Based on the stated objectives, the following research questions guide this research study:
- What is the extent and pattern of human trafficking involving youth in the society?
- What socio-economic factors contribute to the vulnerability of youth to human trafficking?
- How does human trafficking affect the physical, psychological, and social well-being of the youth involved?
- How effective are the existing laws, policies, and programs in combating human trafficking among youth?
- What strategies can be recommended to government agencies, communities, and stakeholders to prevent and reduce human trafficking among youth?
1.5 Significance of Study
The outcome of this research will help government agencies by providing data and recommendations that will improve policies and enforcement strategies aimed at combating human trafficking among youth. It will also assist non-governmental organizations (NGOs) by identifying critical areas where intervention and support services are most needed, enabling them to design more effective programs for prevention and rehabilitation.
Furthermore, educational institutions will benefit as this study will inform curriculum development and awareness campaigns, equipping young people with knowledge that will help them avoid falling prey to traffickers.
Lastly, this study will guide law enforcement in understanding trafficking patterns and challenges, which will improve their capacity to investigate, prosecute offenders, and rescue victims more efficiently.
1.6 Scope of Study
This study focuses on evaluating human trafficking among youth within Lagos State, Nigeria. The study will assess the role of government agencies such as the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and local law enforcement in combating trafficking within Lagos State. Data collection will be limited to selected local government areas within Lagos State to provide a detailed and focused analysis.
1.7 Limitations of the Study
Several limitations were encountered during the course of this study, which may have influenced the results and conclusions.
- Delay from Respondents: Many participants experienced time constraints or hesitated to commit to the study due to their busy schedules. This delay limited the volume of data that could be gathered within the planned timeframe.
- Financial Constraints: Due to budget limitations, there was insufficient funding to expand the research to a larger sample size or to include more varied geographic locations, which might have provided a broader perspective.
- Data Availability: The study will rely heavily on the availability and accuracy of financial data from cooperatives. Some cooperatives may not maintain comprehensive financial records, which could affect the ability to conduct a thorough analysis of working capital management practices.
- Response Bias: The study will involve surveys and interviews with cooperative managers and members. Response bias may occur if respondents provide socially desirable answers or if there is reluctance to disclose negative financial information due to privacy concerns or fear of repercussions.
- Time Constraints: The study will be conducted within a limited time frame, which may restrict the depth of analysis and the ability to track long-term trends in working capital management. The research may not fully capture the seasonal fluctuations or long-term changes in cooperative performance.
1.8 Definition of Terms
Human Trafficking: Human trafficking is defined as the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of persons through force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of exploitation (United Nations, 2000). It is a grave violation of human rights and often involves exploiting vulnerable individuals, especially youth, for labor, sexual exploitation, or other forms of abuse.
Youth: Youth refers to individuals typically between the ages of 15 and 35 years (United Nations, 2013). This age group represents a significant portion of society’s productive population but is also highly vulnerable to exploitation and trafficking due to socio-economic challenges.
Exploitation: Exploitation in the context of human trafficking means using someone unfairly for personal or financial gain, often by forcing them into labor, sexual activities, or other harmful conditions against their will (ILO, 2014).
Vulnerability: Vulnerability describes the state of being exposed to the possibility of harm or exploitation. In this study, vulnerability refers to the conditions such as poverty, lack of education, and social instability that increase the risk of youth falling victim to trafficking (World Health Organization, 2016).
Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation involves the process of restoring trafficked victims’ physical, psychological, and social well-being through support services like counseling, education, and skills training, enabling them to reintegrate into society (International Organization for Migration, 2017).
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