One of the main problems with human trafficking is that most people are unaware that it is also a big problem in South Africa and, in this light, Monash South Africa student, Shannalee Doran has decided to take on the issue and do something about it.
Head of Community Engagement at Monash South Africa, Bronwyn Dugtig and Doran are ready to discuss this issue, which is clearly a passion for both of them.
Doran is currently studying towards her honours degree and is writing a thesis on the subject of human trafficking and the perceived effectiveness of the sweatshop challenge. This challenge was held on 5 October and gave people the opportunity to gain first-hand information on what it’s like to be a victim of human trafficking.
Doran was chosen by Monash SA last year to take part in the humanitarian affairs leadership symposium in Hong Kong where she participated in a sweatshop by Matthew Freedman; she was inspired and decided to do the same. “Many people do not know that human trafficking is also a very real problem in South Africa,” said Doran.
This year, alone, 45 million people, worldwide, have been affected by human trafficking; nine million more than last year. Dugtig said they have noticed that the harvesting of South Africans is a very big problem.
The human traffickers will, for example, promise young girls a job, but it turns out to be nothing more than human trafficking. According to Doran, sex trafficking, exploitation of young children, drug trafficking, organ trafficking and labour trafficking are amongst the biggest issues.
“In South Africa, 45 000 children are being exploited,” said Doran. Child marriage is also becoming a big problem. “The traffickers promise the family they will be taken care of, but then, the traffickers disappear with the child,” she said.
Doran and Dugtig agree that being aware of the issue is the first step towards protecting oneself. “If someone you know has expensive gifts or is dating someone much older, this could be an indicator,” said Doran.
She implored people to make certain that all companies who approach them with a job opportunity, are legit. “I wanted to be a superhero growing up, but I can’t be that so I am trying to help people through this,” she quipped.
Details: Monash South Africa 011 950 4000.
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