The phenomenon of Human Trafficking in Tuscany: the victimi's point of view

Inside the diversified survey of emergencies connected to immigration, the phenomenon of people trafficking is gaining more and more significance in Italy. Hence, mainly thanks to the stimulus and example given by the international institutions, this condition has generated a progressive increase in the commitment and in the activities provided by charged institutions, both in terms of a continuous monitoring of the phenomenon, and in terms of carrying out studies and research aimed at providing a comprehensive integrated approach to this issue. From a purely legislative viewpoint, Italy has found an effective and comprehensive body of law, which places her to the highest levels inside the European outline. In terms of actions to resist the phenomenon of human trafficking, the 228/2003 Law “Misure contro la tratta di persone” (Measures against people trafficking) introduces a new definition of the crime of slavery, as well as of any related crimes. On the other hand, Par. 18 of Italian immigration policies (D. Lgs 268/98) and Par.13 of the above-mentioned Law foresee the institution and funding of special programs aimed at protecting the victims of people trafficking. From 2000 to 2008, the Italian Minister for the Equal Opportunities funded a large number of projects for the protection and first assistance to the victims, on the basis of a “Special Fund” expressly established for those purposes, in order to arrange – not as a temporary solution – not only all the suitable conditions of board, lodging and support to the victims of people trafficking, but also to provide them with enhanced literacy skill and training courses, to foster their social integration and their working introduction. The research has the following objectives: the first is to numerically outline the phenomenon in Italy; the second is to carry out interviews to the women victims of human trafficking, and participating in the social protection plans organized in Tuscany. The reason for being of this approach can be found in the consideration that pure numerical data are not exhaustive for the full understanding of such a complex phenomenon. Through those interviews, the study intends to analyze the following inquiring areas: - Geographical areas of origin and life conditions before the departure. - Recruitment and departure forms in the country of origin. - Organization of the travel and arrival in Italy. - Life conditions, subjugation practices and exploitation methods. - Speculators and organization of exploitation. - Exit methods. This study will be carried out in cooperation with various Tuscan associations, provided with a proved experience in the field of protection and social introduction plans for the victims of human trafficking.