Data and Research on Human Trafficking: Comprehensive Literature Review

The Institute for the Study of International Migration (ISIM) at Georgetown
University will conduct a comprehensive literature search on human trafficking and subsequent analysis of the rigor of the literature they uncover. To complete the literature review, the applicant will:
a. Develop criteria (appropriate for both quantitative and qualitative research) to objectively categorize and rank research-based literature on human trafficking according to its methodological merit,
b. Compile a comprehensive annotated bibliography of existing US and non-US publications (excluding media reports) on trafficking in human beings in a user-friendly and easily accessible electronic form
c. Classify and rank bibliographic literature on trafficking in persons based on the ranking system developed in consultation with NIJ;
d. Complete a literature review based on the gathered information and reflecting the state of knowledge on human trafficking; and
e. Design a dissemination plan to provide different audiences with an easy access to the compiled annotated bibliography

The products of this project will provide decision-makers with vital information to identify and protect victims and prosecute traffickers, craft effective policies, and develop efficient and culturally and linguistically appropriate programs. Those responsible for addressing human trafficking will be able to differentiate between sensational publications intended to raise awareness about trafficking, and serious literature, based on robust empirical research, intended to analyze the root causes of human trafficking; provide estimates of the number of victims; map and analyze trafficking trends and routes; examine the different types of exploitation; understand the resiliency and the suffering of trafficked victims; and assess the appropriateness of treatment modalities and psycho-social programs aimed at rehabilitating victims. ca/ncf