TRAFFICKING IN WOMEN AND PROSTITUTION – LEGISLATIVE MODELS, INSTITUTIONAL PRACTICES AND RISK FACTORS

Abstract

Objective. The objective was to analyze the impact of institutional practices on the physical and mental health of women victims of human trafficking and prostitution, as well as to highlight the main risk factors for them. Material and methods. By using several databases, the number of studies included in this metaanalysis was 25. Scientific articles, doctoral theses, dissertations, presentations at conferences, book chapters, or reports were taken into account. There were longitudinal or cross-sectional studies. The meta-analysis totaled 455,406 subjects, the heterogeneity being a significant one (Q = 5062,288, df = 24, p = 0.000), and we increase the average effect, 38% of the variance of the results being due to the studied variables (95%: 1.08 % – 0.31%). Results. The hostile attitude of the authorities towards sex workers and the refusal to offer protection were identified as the most widespread consequences of institutional practices. Other consequences that arise as a result of the direct interaction of sex workers with the authorities are risky behaviors such as drug use, violent sexual acts, or discontinuation of drug treatment. The key risk factors for women in this category are psychological difficulties, gender and economic inequalities and an inadequate sexual history. Conclusions. There is a continuous interaction between the legislative model, institutional practices, and the physical and mental health of sex workers. Awareness and understanding of the problems that these women face when they practice prostitution would facilitate the improvement of the management capacity of this phenomenon.

Keywords

• prostitution
• human trafficking
• legislative model
• risk