Women Trafficking in Pakistan: Patterns, Causes, Consequences, and Legal Strategies for Prevention

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17833938

Abstract

Women’s trafficking is also one of the most widespread human rights abuses in Pakistan that is a manifestation of innermost socio-economic vulnerabilities, gendered inequities as well as the weakness of institutions. This paper analyses the patterns, causes, and effects of women traffickers in Pakistan through a doctrinal research and secondary data analysis on the topic and analysis of the suitability of legal and policy frameworks that exist. It contends that poverty, political instability, gender-based discrimination and existence of organized criminal networks in the country and internationally contribute to perpetuating trafficking. The article raises issues of the physical, psychological, and socio-economic damage experienced by women in the trafficking business and criticizes loopholes in the enforcement capacity of the country, victim support, and inter-agency coordination in Pakistan. It ends with the suggestions of strategically oriented reforms which are targeted preventive initiatives, better legal systems, survivor focused rehabilitation and improved international cooperation. The research paper also helps to comprehend the intricacies of the issue of female trafficking in Pakistan as well as gives policy-based suggestions on how the state response can be improved.

Keywords: Women, Trafficking in Pakistan: Patterns, Causes, Consequences, and Legal Strategies for Prevention