Megan Ballema
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Adam Simon
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Earth and Environmental Sciences / LSA
Program: UROPF
Session: Session 6 (3:40pm – 4:30pm)
Authors:
Abstract
Despite the prevalence of human trafficking in the world, there is little information about what actually occurs. There are many common misconceptions that alter people’s opinions and perspectives on this issue that is more serious than we all may perceive it to be. Human trafficking doesn’t necessarily mean sex trafficking. It can also be forced labor. Additionally, it is not always involving kidnapping like modern day documentaries may lead us to believe. A lot of women voluntarily engage in it because they are told they will receive payment that they can give back to their families who are struggling financially back at home. This Human Trafficking project focuses mainly on human trafficking in Nigeria by gathering firsthand experiences and debunking common myths that have formed over time via StoryMaps. StoryMaps are essentially interactive maps placed on a website where people can click on them and watch videos to see where the victims have been trafficked and hear their experiences firsthand. By working with United Nations ambassadors, non profit organizations, and governmental organizations, a plethora of statistics and facts have given the website maximum efficiency and accuracy. The goal of the website and the project is to educate people from all over the world to debunk any misconceptions, but also prevent women in Nigeria and other underdeveloped countries from participating in trafficking by providing them with alternative options. By educating people about this issue of modern day slavery, hopefully human trafficking can be significantly decreased.
