in the best interests of the child integrating trafficked children in the united states presentation...

Integration into a new setting: how do children integrate following their

trafficking experience and what can we learn from work with other populations

regarding integration?

11th October 2012

In the Best Interests of the Child

Integrating Trafficked Children in the United States

Presentation by

Elzbieta M. Gozdziak, Ph.D.

ISIM, Georgetown University.

Definitions

Child...Childhood

...Every human being below the age of 18 (UN Convention on the Rights of the Child).

Chronological age as a measure of biological and psychological maturity.

Rejects cultural and social meanings.

Child Trafficking...the recruitment,

transportation , transfer, harbouring or receipt of any person under the age of 18 for the purposes of sexual or labour exploitation, forced labour or salvery.

The StudySmall cohort:141 children trafficked between 2000 and 2006.Lofty GoalsExpand knowledge base of the special needs of

trafficked children.Recommendations aimed at the 3 Ps Numerous challenges and dilemmasSupportNational Institute of Justice (NIJ)

The CohortAge range: 2-17 years of age when trafficked.83% between 14-17 years old when trafficked.Unaccompanied children: mean age of 16.Accompanied: mean age of 13.Majority were girls (83%)70% trafficked for sexual exploitation or a

combination of sexual and labour exploitation.24% solely for labour, including domestic servitude.Diverse group.

Integration ServicesFederally funded.Based on the principle of the best interest of the

child.Determined by service providers.“Children’s” voices and perspectives are not

consulted.Focus on vulnerability and trauma.Inability to exercise agency.Fosters dependancy.

Case ExamplesEvelyn Chumbow, a

success story.“Analis”“Donna”“Angie”

Recommendations

There is a need to consult youth’s voices, experiences, and perspectives to inform and shape both integration policy and programming.

There is a need to be flexible in service provision.

There is a need to study long-term outcomes of integration.

If you have any questions or would like to find out more about this research please contact Elzbieta M.

Gozdziak:

emg27@georgetown.edu