What is sex trafficking?

Sex trafficking occurs when a person is forced into sexual activity without their consent. Whether under threat or abduction, the coercive nature of this is a complete exploitation of a person’s human rights.

Unfortunately, anyone can be at risk of being sex trafficked, with studies showing that it happens to people of all ages and genders. Unbeknownst to many, sex trafficking often occurs in plain sight.

Sex trafficking in the UK

Because of its criminal nature, it is almost impossible to find exact numbers of people being trafficked. Those who exploit and sex traffic people do so illegally, meaning the numbers can't be accurately documented. However, organisations like Unseen UK estimate that around 4.8 million people are victims of forced sexual exploitation worldwide.

How sex trafficking differs from sex work

Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for people to conflate sex work with sex trafficking. However, doing so can be harmful to sex workers. To understand how sex trafficking differs from sex work, we must define both terms properly.

The key difference lies in consent—sex work is consensual and willing, whereas sex trafficking involves coercion, threats, and exploitation. Some trafficked individuals may appear to be sex workers, which contributes to the misunderstanding.

Why it’s harmful to conflate the two

When sex work and sex trafficking are lumped together, sex workers can become unjustly targeted. Though sex workers and organisations are aware of the differences, some other groups still conflate the two, leading to negative consequences. This conflation forces those who choose to enter the sex industry into the shadows, creating dangerous situations for them.

Signs someone is being sex trafficked

Although they are distinct, sex trafficking remains a real issue. Many sex worker charities oppose sex trafficking and refer victims to the appropriate services. Here are some signs that could indicate a person is being trafficked:

• Guarded behavior: Trafficked individuals often can't stray far from their captors for fear of punishment.
• Physical abuse: Signs like bruises, cigarette burns, or untreated medical conditions could indicate trafficking.
• Emotional abuse: Trafficked individuals may appear anxious, depressed, or lack confidence.
• Branding tattoos: Some trafficking groups brand their victims with specific symbols.
• Isolation from family: Victims may be cut off from family and friends, often moved to another country.
• Limited language skills: Trafficking victims may have poor English skills, with a vocabulary focused on sexual terms.
• Control over finances: Many trafficked individuals are not allowed to keep the money they earn.

What to do if you suspect someone is being trafficked

If you suspect someone is being sex trafficked, there are ways to raise the alarm while keeping yourself safe. Contact local authorities or organisations like Unseen UK that work to help trafficking victims.

Here at Empire Escorts Agency, we want to clarify both terms, highlighting the importance of understanding the differences between sex work and sex trafficking. It's crucial to continue these conversations, remove the stigmas around sex work, and raise awareness of sex trafficking.

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