As victims of human trafficking, some were forced into unpaid labor , but the great majority were made to work as prostitutes. Changes to the law have helped reveal the extent of the phenomenon, and allowed for a more effective approach in combating it. In alone, there were an estimated 23, people considered to be at risk, and in the case of sexual exploitation the majority were working in roadside brothels. Experts agree that serious debate on pimping is required if the situation in Spain is to fundamentally change.
Nudged into action by the EU and the Warsaw Convention of , Spain made human trafficking a criminal offense for the first time in Now, a much clearer picture is emerging of the underworld that has been thriving under our noses for years. And the extent of it is nothing short of horrific β there were 4, victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation identified between and This figure rises to 5, if we include those who have been forced into unpaid labor.
In alone, 1, victims were rescued. These people tell of working off debts that never diminish, isolation, a lack of Spanish language skills and a level of fear and violence that keep them from seeking help. Another victim had her three-year-old taken from her and sent to Ibiza, and she was only able to see her child on Skype β but only if she paid to do so.
In , a Romanian woman who escaped was recaptured, tied to a radiator, had her head shaved and a barcode and her debt tattooed on her wrist as an example to her fellow victims. Nigerian women are often raped on their journey across the desert, which can take as along as a year. Those who get pregnant and give birth frequently have their babies taken from them.
The women are scared to step out of line for fear that threats to their families will be acted upon. The most horrific cases of sexual slavery involve minors working in roadside clubs and apartments.
