Human trafficking for sexual coercion in South Africa: The role of civil society in victim responses and service intervention

Mahlunge, Ashley

Human trafficking for sexual coercion in South Africa: The role of civil society in victim responses and service intervention

Thesis / Dissertation

2026

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

Department of Sociology

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Abstract

Sex trafficking in South Africa has often been studied through the lenses of sex work, healthcare practitioners, or counselling, but the role of civil society in responding to victims and providing services has not been explored through a feminist criminological perspective. This dissertation addresses how civil society responds to victims of sex trafficking, including their service interventions, collaboration with law enforcement, and the challenges they face in providing these services. It also examines how ordinary citizens can contribute to responding to trafficking in SA. A qualitative approach was employed, utilizing semi-structured, in-depth interviews with nine participants from eight civil organisations across South Africa, enabling open-ended discussions. An exploratory research paradigm was used to gain a comprehensive understanding of sex trafficking, the role of these organisations in service provision, and victim responses. Data was analysed using thematic analysis to identify patterns in service provision and response efforts. The study found that civil organisations provide a range of services to victims, including shelters, counselling, referrals to SAPS and other organisations, rehabilitation, reintegration skills, and legal assistance. However, many organisations address multiple issues like gender-based violence (GBV), rape, and sexual violence alongside trafficking, which may reduce the focus and effectiveness of interventions specifically targeted trafficking victims. Additionally, participants detailed their victim identification assessments, which included receiving tips from community members or victims via the national human trafficking hotline and conducting screenings to identify trafficking elements and refer victims to the appropriate organisations, while adhering to standard procedures. Challenges such as funding shortages and mixed experiences with law enforcement were highlighted as factors impacting service effectiveness. This study contributes to bridging the academic gap on civil society's role in responding to sex trafficking in SA and offers insights for more nuanced, contextual future research and interventions.

Keywords

sex trafficking

civil society

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