Perceptions of South Africa as a Trafficking ‘Hub’
Traditional migration patterns from neighbouring states into South Africa as well as the more recent ‘magnet’ effect of South Africa readily contribute to perceptions of South Africa as a trafficking hub. What may previously have been tolerated as conditions of labour, the risks of migration or as acceptable chances to take in the search for opportunity and improved living standards are now, under the spotlight of ‘human trafficking,’ likely to be perceived very differently.
Whatever the truth about conditions of relative wealth and poverty that lie behind South Africa’s image, it is the image that counts. Along with the migrant populations come the attendant exploiters to capitalize on their vulnerability, ready to satisfy the demands of the diverse and complex ‘rainbow’ society – which may well be turning South Africa into the ‘hub’ of human trafficking.