A Bibliometric Analysis of Research on Human Trafficking: A Focus on the United Nations Framework and the Sustainable Development Goals

This study analyzes how the academic literature reflects and engages with the fight against human trafficking (HT) in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It adopts a two-pronged approach: examining how specialized literature addresses the UN’s role in HT, and exploring the contribution of the SDGs. A bibliometric analysis using Bibliometrix and Biblioshiny was conducted on Web of Science articles. Results show research is concentrated in Western countries, revealing a need to boost capacity in affected regions. The thematic analysis highlights the relevance of governance, institutional frameworks and international cooperation.