What is a key barrier that victims of trafficking often face?

Victims of trafficking frequently experience dependence on their trafficker, which acts as a crucial barrier to their ability to escape and seek help. This dependence can manifest in various forms, including financial reliance, emotional manipulation, threats, or fear of retribution. Traffickers often exert control over their victims, isolating them from support networks, which compounds feelings of helplessness.

This power dynamic makes it challenging for victims to reach out for assistance or even recognize that they are in a situation from which they can escape. It can also lead to feelings of shame or guilt, causing further reluctance to communicate with law enforcement or social services. Understanding this dependence is vital in addressing the complexities surrounding trafficking and in creating effective support systems for victims.