News In Focus
9 February 2010
Human Rights Commission to inquire into human trafficking
The Equality and Human Rights Commission Scotland has launched an in-depth inquiry into human trafficking in Scotland with a particular focus on commercial sexual exploitation.
The inquiry, to be led by Baroness Helena Kennedy, QC, will seek to identify the nature, extent and causes of human trafficking in Scotland. It will also assess to what extent Scotland is meeting international and domestic human rights obligations to prevent and prohibit trafficking, prosecute traffickers, and protect its victims.
Baroness Kennedy said the inquiry was “about making a reality of people’s human rights and serving those whose rights have been violated”. “We will consider whether recommendations on prevention, prohibition, prosecution and protection are necessary, and ensure human rights are at the centre of Scotland's anti-trafficking policy and practice.”
Morag Alexander, Scotland Commissioner for the commission, said human trafficking was one of the most extreme abuses of human rights.
“There is a suspicion that Scotland has a disproportionate share of the human trafficking trade, and some have expressed concern that there have been no convictions for trafficking offences in Scotland compared to over 100 convictions in the rest of the UK. This inquiry will examine whether these concerns are well founded. It will also examine the level of services and the information available to victims.”
The Scottish Government has welcomed the inquiry. Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said its focus on human trafficking for commercial sexual exploitation was particularly welcome. “The harm involved in trafficking for indoor prostitution is hidden but the Scottish Government is committed to tackling it and we look forward to working to assist the Commission with this important Inquiry.”
The inquiry will aim to be completed by summer 2011. Once it has reached a conclusion, a full report of the Commission's findings, and any recommendations, will be published.