Human trafficking in Bangladesh: the interplay of deception, socio-economic vulnerabilities, and structural challenges

Human trafficking remains a critical global development and security concern, but the specific dynamics affecting Bangladeshi citizens are underexplored. This qualitative study draws on 35 in-depth interviews with survivors and experts to examine how traffickers target individuals’ socio-economic vulnerabilities by making false promises of legitimate employment, better income, and brighter prospects abroad. Traffickers employ deceptive ‘soft’ recruitment tactics, which lead to forced labour, domestic servitude, sexual exploitation, and financial abuse, all enforced through threats, violence, and coercion. Survivors recount traumatic experiences, including confiscation of documents, constant surveillance, hazardous conditions, and repeated physical and psychological abuse. The findings underscore how socioeconomic factors drive migration and elevate individuals’ susceptibility to exploitation. The study calls for targeted interventions, strong protective legislation, and international cooperation to address the root causes of trafficking and support victims, aligning its recommendations with global priorities like SDG 1, SDG 5, and SDG 8.