The particular interpretive query of this paper is: did State Parties
intentionally sign themselves up for mandatory transnational obligations to address the
root causes of human trafficking in countries of origin? It is argued herein that the
ordinary meaning of 9(4) clearly creates a shared responsibility to prevent
trafficking in origin countries. In the context of transnational prevention
programs to address root causes of trafficking, States Parties to the Protocol have
strong mandatory obligations. These obligations override the less onerous due
diligence obligations imposed under human rights law by virtue of the lex
specialis maxim. This interpretation is bolstered by the aim and purpose of the
Protocol because one of the three cornerstone goals of the Protocol is prevention.