The gendered dimension of human trafficking: sexual exploitation of trafficked women in Italy

The purpose of this thesis is to analyse the gendered dimension of human trafficking, focusing specifically on human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation, and taking into consideration the Italian case and how the Italian government answers to the need for a gender-based approach to combat human trafficking. The international framework on human trafficking is analysed in depth, outlining the main concepts and definitions, and also considering the gendered dimension of human trafficking: sex trafficking. Women sexual exploitation is also analysed as one of the main concepts explored, and an important section is consecrated to the question of prostitution and how to discern ‘voluntary’ from ‘forced’ prostitution, which is a fundamental part of the international framework on trafficking. The international legal framework on human trafficking is analysed thoroughly, highlighting the most important provisions, and focusing not only on the instruments directly related to trafficking, but also on the provisions that guarantee protection for more vulnerable groups such as children, women, and migrants. Considering the focus on the Italian case, the European framework is also analysed, and an important attention is given to the recent jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights. The Italian framework is therefore presented, considering the trafficking framework and two overlapping frameworks that influence the trafficking process in the country: prostitution policies and immigration laws. While the Italian framework on trafficking seems to be compliant with international and European standards, a closer analysis shows that the Italian approach does not provide for a sufficient support of trafficking victims, and it has been found lacking a gender perspective and of appropriate preventive measures, especially in the case of prostitution and migration laws, that are structured in a way that encourages human trafficking more than fighting it. As a conclusion, some recommendations on possible improvements to be carried out to the Italian framework on trafficking are made, and some points for future reflection are highlighted.