SOCIO-ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF INDIA AND THE US
AUTHOR – RIYA JAISWAL, STUDENT AT AMITY UNIVERSITY, LUCKNOW CAMPUS
BEST CITATION – RIYA JAISWAL, SOCIO-ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF INDIA AND THE US, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (4) OF 2026, PG. 469-479, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344. DOI – https://doi.org/10.65393/IJLRV6I445
ABSTRACT
Human trafficking is a widespread problem that affects both the USA and India, though in different ways. This essay investigates the socioeconomic elements that contribute to human trafficking in these two nations. According to our research, human trafficking in both countries is frequently caused by poverty, inequality, unemployment, and a lack of education.
Due to India’s high rates of poverty (22%, World Bank, 2020) and unequal income distribution (Gini coefficient: 0.38, World Bank, 2020), vulnerable groups are more likely to be exploited. The issue is made worse by limited access to employment and education (7.2% unemployment, IMF, 2020). In contrast, despite lower rates of poverty (12.9%, Census Bureau, 2020), the USA has problems with human trafficking that derive from systemic disparities (Gini coefficient: 0.41, World Bank, 2020) and vulnerabilities among marginalized groups.
A comparative study reveals the complexity of human trafficking, with inequality playing a major role in the USA and poverty playing a major one in India. Targeted initiatives that address these determinants—such as economic empowerment programs, education, and awareness campaigns—are essential to the fight against human trafficking.
The study’s conclusions have important policy ramifications, highlighting the necessity of context-specific strategies for combating human trafficking. Addressing the underlying causes of human trafficking, such as poverty, inequality, and illiteracy, should be a top priority for governments and anti-trafficking organizations.
By comparing India and the USA and emphasizing the necessity for specialized tactics to stop human trafficking, this study adds to the body of previous material.
Keywords: Human trafficking, socio-economic determinants, India, USA, comparative analysis