How is human trafficking defined?

Human trafficking is defined as a serious crime and a violation of human rights that does not necessarily depend on the movement of individuals. Rather, it encompasses the exploitation of people through various means such as force, fraud, or coercion, regardless of whether they are physically moved or transported.

This definition highlights that individuals can be victims of trafficking in situations where they are exploited for purposes such as forced labor or sexual exploitation, even if they have not been transported across borders or even away from their original locations. This recognition is crucial for effectively addressing and combating human trafficking, as it broadens the understanding of how and where exploitation can occur, thus allowing for more comprehensive prevention and intervention strategies.

Other options suggest limitations or specific conditions that do not align with the broader understanding of human trafficking, such as requiring transportation, focusing solely on sexual exploitation, or indicating that it only takes place in institutional settings. These interpretations may hinder efforts to address the full scope of trafficking issues.