“Hjärtan måste inte explodera”. Policydokument som hinder och möjligheter i arbetet mot människohandel i form av sexuell exploatering

Abstract

Human trafficking is an age-old phenomenon. Several international and national policy documents exist to combat trafficking in persons. A majority of the policies are well-established, yet trafficking in persons is still a widespread phenomenon. The study aims to examine and analyze the opportunities and limitations Swedish anti-trafficking practitioners have experienced. Further incorporating recommendations from practitioners concerning future anti-trafficking efforts both locally and nationally. Several concepts and models, mainly organisational theories, were used to realize the aim of the study and further answer the posed research questions. Ten semi-structured interviews were conducted, followed by a subsequent thematic analysis of the results. The results described varying levels of implementation across the sampled organizations. The central finding presented a diverging perception of policy documents, wherein informants described them as both enabling tools and disrupting barriers in regards to their ability to promote action. Further detailed was an increased demand for competence amongst anti-trafficking practitioners concerning their knowledge of human trafficking and subsequent ability to identify and ensure that the victims' rights are realized. Another prevalent theme was the appeal for increased societal recognition of the crime that is human trafficking. The study findings emphasize a need for increased multilateral awareness of the prevalence, combative actions, and preventive measures employed to combat human trafficking in Sweden.