Human Trafficking for Labour Exploitation: A Case Study of Germany Accessing Gaps and Barriers in the Identification of its Victims

This case study explores barriers in the identification of victims of human trafficking for labour exploitation in Germany. While the main focus on combating human trafficking was on sexual exploitation, more recent reports display a global increase in identification of labour trafficking. Although severe forms of labour exploitation indicating trafficking are reported within Germany, the evidence according to official data continues on a small scale. The study, therefore, contributes to the current discourse on responses to human trafficking for labour exploitation. Interviews with experts from Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) and German Police shed light on the barriers that hinder the identification of human trafficking for labour exploitation. The findings indicate deficits in the implementation of policies and hindering the formal identification of victims based on a narrow application of the criminal code defining human trafficking. The study recommends establishing a national referral mechanism and adopt a stronger human rights approach of victim support and protection.