Aiden Moskal-Linder
Pronouns: He/Him/His
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: Adam Simon, Aiden Moskal-Linder, Megan Ballema, Jordyn Ives, Hannah Yoran
Abstract
Despite the international efforts to prevent and show the effect of global human trafficking, not many have displayed first-hand accounts of victims. In many cases, women in developing nations are often underrepresented in global initiatives aimed at human trafficking prevention. Women in these nations, like Nigeria, are subjected to societal shunning and familial seclusion. With this project, we seek to create an online center focused on preventative measures, victims’ stories, and the effects of current international intervention to lessen the widespread use of human trafficking. We will also use the geographic information system (GIS) to map the routes between Nigeria and other locations that remain prevalent in the trafficking of women. We will also be conducting interviews that will provide insight into the stories of women trafficked from Nigeria to other nations – likely in Northern Africa and Southern Europe. Throughout our interview process, we hope to understand the reasoning behind certain decision making processes. More specifically, why did these women choose to move forward with jobs masked with financial results; what job opportunities are they given when they return to Nigeria; What was the mental impact of being a victim of human trafficking? The stories of these victims help us understand the personal impact on women. With these accounts, locations/routes, and international programs currently in use, we will begin to put together a preventative and informational center for women in Nigeria and people of the world to utilize whenever they need more information on human trafficking.
