Legal Studies 362 - Human Trafficking

This course involves in-depth study of the topic of human trafficking, often referred to as "modern day slavery." The course will explore the definition of the crime of human trafficking in the US and internationally and study the debates surrounding anti-trafficking laws and policies. We will examine the similarities and differences between slavery and human trafficking in the popular imagination and the law. Readings will focus on recent debates among scholars, activists, and policy makers over the nature and meaning of choice, coercion, and victimization in exploitative labor situations, migration, and commercial sexual activities. We will also discuss how the phenomenon of human trafficking is measured and quantified, how victimhood is defined and understood by various constituents, and how law enforcement officers investigate and respond to trafficking in persons.

Open to Senior and Junior Legal Studies majors only. LEGAL 101 Other majors can contact instructor for permission to enroll at: tdocarmo@umass.edu