The Problem of Trafficking in Women in the EU. A Constructive Policy Proposal.

Sammanfattning: Trafficking for sexual exploitation is the most common form of trafficking in the European Union (EU). The problem is long lasting and mostly affects women and children. During the two latest decades, the EU has developed an extensive anti-trafficking policy framework. Europol, together with a variety of sources, nevertheless stresses that the problem do not show any tendency of decreasing. This thesis examines what the EU can do to combat trafficking effectively. It is proposed that trafficking has to be connected with prostitution. A constructive methodology is used, in combination with a theoretical feminist perspective. The study consists of a normative part that develops the norm “trafficking is oppression”, which establishes that the EU has to combat trafficking because of the union’s condemnation of oppressive practices. The empirical part illustrates the gendered nature of the trafficking problem in the EU and how it is interconnected with prostitution. Finally, the constructive analysis shows why the European reality is disconnected from the normative condition. A constructive proposal is developed based on neglected factors in contemporary EU policies. Three new measures are suggested for a new effective policy; a reframing of the problem, clearer objectives and incorporation of new research on prostitution.