Trafficking in human beings after the collapse of the Soviet Union with case study on Armenia

Abstract

After regaining its independence after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Armenia appeared to be in a situation of legislative chaos that created ideal conditions for the development of human trafficking. The opening of borders, the war with the neighbouring country, the economic and social instability have become the source of power of an industry that has flourished rapidly. Criminals take advantage of the high rate of unemployment in the country, especially among young girls that often are orphans or from poor families, who are not aware of their rights and working conditions abroad. These victims rush to accept the first proposed work. Once in the hands of traffickers in Armenia or abroad, they undergo sexual exploitation. Aiming to clarify the current situation of human trafficking in Armenia and Armenians in Russia, Turkey and the UAE (the three main destination for sexual trafficking of Armenian women) and after giving a brief historical interpretation, the main legislative field will be examined. Theoretically to punish the criminals of trafficking and to protect the Armenian women, victims of sexual exploitation seemed to be essential but the picture of the reality of the situation gains different colours from the picture that the official sources paint.