NCJ Number
242484
Date Published
May 2013
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This report from the Australian Institute for Criminology examines the barriers that exist for trafficked persons involved with criminal justice proceedings.
Abstract
Using the experiences of persons trafficked from Indonesia, this report from the Australian Institute of Criminology examines the barriers that exist for trafficked persons involved with criminal justice proceedings. The International Organization for Migration's (IOM's) Indonesia Counter Trafficking Module (CTM) Database provides information on the experiences of persons trafficked in Indonesia. Analysis of this data identified several factors that affect a trafficked person's willingness and ability to become involved with criminal justice proceedings. These factors are discussed in detail and include fear of authorities, identification, and reprisals; stigma and denial associated with being a trafficking victim; criminalization and re-victimization of trafficked persons who are prosecuted and detained; and lack of trust in criminal justice officials. In addition, the report identifies and discusses factors that can make the barriers to involvement worse. These factors include the legal framework that exists in the criminal justice system, inadequate support and treatment for persons who have been trafficked; lack of corroborative evidence to support trafficked persons' statements; and corruption by government workers. Recommendations for removing barriers to involvement for trafficked persons include improved training for frontline law officers and criminal justice practitioners; provision of information relating to criminal proceedings in the language of the trafficked person; and policies that would prevent victim-witnesses from having to see their trafficker in court while delivering evidence. Figure and references