When people think about globalization, most don't immediately connect it to the sudden burst in sex trafficking numbers world-wide. Across the globe, nearly 800,000 women and children are enslaved annually, joining the estimated 10 million women already trapped, in the worldwide sex trade, which annually rakes in aproximately $20 billion. These women and children are forced to provide sexual pleasure for money (that they do not recieve), while enduring abuse that damages them physically and mentally.
Sadly, the internet has helped globalize, protect, encourage, and recommend the abuse of these people by websites. On them, many of the customers, or 'Johns' as they are called, chat on forums about the best countries and brothels to be sexually served at, how to make sure that a cop won't catch you, and how to make a prostitute do what you want. Brothels themselves often have their own websites, which usually boast pictures of their girls, complete with prices and locations beside.
Unfortunately, the internet has helped boost the sex trade by enabling buyers to hook up to sellers, book their girls, arrange sex parties, and find the cheapest way to get there. Not only this, but the internet is a storage bin for pornography. Many Johns get hooked on porn, and then transfer their desires to the real life stage. Some going so far as to video-tape their escapades with trafficked girls, enabling them to replay, and enjoy the frolic a little longer.
So is the internet evil? Not at all. Then what am I getting at? How are we supposed to respond, and to what extent? I believe that nothing can be done to win the battle against the sex trade, without some education. I recommend that you pick up 2 books by Victor Malarek; The Natashas: Inside the New Global Sex Trade, and The Johns: Sex For Sale and The Men Who Buy It. Both books have opened my eyes to the evil that is happening under our very noses (yes, it happens here in Canada too). I believe that we should respond to this side effect of globalization with the greatest extent possible. I'm not an expert on how the internet works, but if someone brings to court websites such as the World Wide Sex Guide, perhaps something can be done to shut them down.
Harder punishment, and stricter policies for Canadian sex tourists, a watchful eye on the R & R activities Canadian troops overseas participate in, and public education on the problem of sexual slavery, hopefully will be a way that Canada can help defeat the sex trade. As individuals, we can all do our part to help the women and children caught in this trap. Some things to consider would be supporting organizations that help the victims recover, and punish the offenders - such as the International Justice Mission (IJM). Voting for a MP who cares about this problem, and wants to make a positive difference, can also be a good way to show your response.
Links to the books I mentioned:
International Justice Mission Link:
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