Evidence that Evidence Doesn't Matter: Human Trafficking Cases in Canada

Authors

  • Katrin Roots York University
  • Ann De Shalit Ryerson University

Keywords:

Human Trafficking, Anti-Trafficking Discourse, Subject Position, Sex Work

Abstract

Abstract

This article considers the ways in which the political pressures that have structured Canada’s involvement in the fight against human trafficking and the on-the-ground enforcement of laws adopted through Canada’s positioning as an anti-trafficking nation have created a problem that necessitates regulation. Although the problem could be interpreted as a legal fiction, its effects are real and include greater restrictions on migrants, a lack of attention to wide-ranging labour abuses, and the tightening of the net around sex work.

 

Résumé

Cet article considère les moyens par lesquels les pressions politiques, qui ont structuré la participation du Canada à la lutte contre la traite des personnes et l’application sur le terrain des lois adoptées suite au positionnement du Canada en tant que nation opposée à la traite, ont créé un problème qui exige une réglementation. Bien que le problème puisse être interprété comme une fiction juridique, ses effets sont réels et comprennent des restrictions plus importantes sur les migrants, un manque d’attention aux abus considérables en matière de droit du travail et le resserrement du filet autour du travail du sexe.

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Author Biographies

Katrin Roots, York University

PhD Candidate, York University, Socio-Legal Studies Dept

Ann De Shalit, Ryerson University

PhD Candidate, PhD Policy Studies, Ryerson University

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Published

2016-07-13