Assessment of the Trends of Human Trafficking in EthiopiaThe Case of Metema Woreda

Abstract Human trafficking, as an illegal movement of people using coercions, frauds, and forces, is considered modern-day slavery. The world nowadays is experiencing severe socio-economic and cultural problems as a result of human trafficking. This study examines the trends of human trafficking in Metema Woreda, Ethiopia. The study also investigates actors and modus operandi of human trafficking in Metema woreda. A qualitative research method was employed—both descriptive and case study research designs were also used. Accordingly, primary data were collected by conducting key informant interviews with residents, victims, and public officials. Secondary data were collected from state documents, records, reports, articles, and official statistics. The collected data were thematically analysed. The study finally concludes that despite there had been increasing trends in the past, the current trend of human trafficking in Metema shows slight decreasing. The study identified traffickers, political leaders, shekaba, shekama , residents of transit places, government officials, and security forces as actors facilitating the human trafficking process. Moreover, extreme poverty and high unemployment rates are driving forces that make individuals, particularly young women, become victims of human trafficking. Generally, the study recommends the local and higher governments to address human trafficking by enforcing laws more effectively, implementing robust local security measures, generating employment prospects, and alleviating poverty. The study also recommends the local community to stop collaborating the illegal traffickers and stand for fight against the human trafficking.