The Practice of Transnational Organized Crime and Its Threats to Human Security: A Case Study of Human Trafficking in Wajir County, Kenya
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Date
2024-10
Authors
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Publisher
Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences
Abstract
Human trafficking has become a global concern negatively impacting nations and thus required an appropriate response. The main purpose of the study was to analyze the practice of human trafficking as transnational organized crime on human security with specific reference to Wajir County, Kenya. Human trafficking was a complex process that required a number of steps to be completed. It was a global problem that affected human security in many ways. The practice of human trafficking as transnational organized crime violated fundamental human rights and threatened the safety and wellbeing of its victims. The problem was particularly acute in Wajir County, where the trafficking of women and children for forced labor and sexual exploitation was prevalent. Hence the study adopted the following specific objectives; to determine the effects of human trafficking on human security in Wajir County, Kenya; to examine the causes of human trafficking on human security in Wajir County, Kenya; and to suggest the measures in tackling human trafficking on human security in Wajir County, Kenya. The following were the theories that underpinned the study’s topic and objectives: modern slavery theory and routine activity theory, these theories were important frameworks in understanding and combating this transnational crime that threatened human security. This study used an exploratory research design and the focus of this research was on the County of Wajir in Kenya's North Eastern Region. The target population was 781,263 people living in Wajir County, however, using stratified random sampling, Wajir town was selected. Moreover, using purposive sampling, the unit of inquiry was selected, including senior police officers, immigration officers, and community leaders, hence a sample size of 9 was adopted in this research. Primary data and secondary data were used as the research instruments, while the data collection method was through an interview guide. The researcher used data triangulation, sourced from open-ended interview questions, to create a comprehensive perspective on the relationship between human trafficking and human security. Findings revealed severe physical and psychological harm inflicted upon victims, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive support systems. Human trafficking disrupted communities socioeconomically and culturally, emphasizing the necessity for holistic strategies addressing systemic factors. Effective interventions included extensive awareness campaigns, law enforcement training, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. Recommendations stressed prioritizing rehabilitation efforts, addressing root causes, and fostering coordinated action across sectors. Further research should explore socioeconomic and cultural vulnerabilities, evaluate legal frameworks, assess international cooperation, and investigate long-term impacts on survivors. Understanding the intersectionality of human trafficking with other forms of organized crime was crucial for developing integrated intervention approaches.
Description
Master of Arts in Diplomacy, Development and International Security
Keywords
Human trafficking
Citation
Aruasa, M. C. (2024). The Practice of Transnational Organized Crime and Its Threats to Human Security: A Case Study of Human Trafficking in Wajir County, Kenya. Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences