The hidden chains

Exploring pathways of women trafficking in Bangladesh

Bibliographic Data

ID6460183
AuthorsNasif Sadik (Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University), Subrata Banarjee (0000-0002-7942-1988, Australian National University, corresponding author)
Year2025
Volume115
Pages103264-103264
Publication date2025-12-01
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueWomen s Studies International Forum (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0277-5395 • E-ISSN: 1879-243X
PublisherElsevier BV (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1016/j.wsif.2025.103264
OpenAlexW4416888127
LanguageEN
References cited10

Human trafficking, particularly of women, is one of the most serious violations of human rights. Bangladesh, due to its geopolitical location, the socioeconomic status of its women, and its insecure borders with neighbouring countries on all sides, is a common country of origin and transit for human trafficking. The main objective of this study is to determine the pathways of women trafficking in Bangladesh, and explore the vulnerabilities of victims. To conduct this study, an exploratory qualitative research design was employed, with participants selected from the Dhaka Metropolitan Area. The findings of the study reveal that the majority of victims are young and come from a disadvantaged socioeconomic background. Traffickers exploit the vulnerabilities of these women by offering false promises of employment and a better lifestyle, ultimately leading to sexual exploitation. During this process, trafficking groups organize themselves and seek assistance from border security forces, middlemen, and politicians, using various deceptive methods to evade detection by law enforcement agencies. Additionally, unlike traditional trafficking methods, traffickers now utilize social media and digital platforms to target their victims. Most victims endure rape, gang rape, drug injection, threats of murder, extreme physical and mental torture, and are denied access to basic necessities. Policy implications of the study include strengthening border security, addressing socioeconomic vulnerabilities, enhancing law enforcement efforts, regulating digital platforms, and providing comprehensive support services for trafficking survivors to prevent and combat human trafficking.

Disadvantaged · Drug trafficking · Exploit · Human security · Human trafficking · Law enforcement · Qualitative research · Socioeconomic status · Vulnerability (computing) · Cybercrime and Law Enforcement Studies · International Human Rights and Reproductive Law · Sex work and related issues

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