The policy framework for combating human trafficking and protecting victims in Denmark does not match the reality faced by the majority of the migrant women arriving in the country. Especially in relation to women from African countries, the national legislation and regulations can be a source of frustration for agencies such as Reden International – where I work – which helps foreign women working in prostitution in Denmark, particularly victims of trafficking.
There are different groups of migrant women selling sex in Denmark. Many come from Thailand or Eastern Europe, but the majority of the women we meet are from Nigeria. Nigerian women finance their hazardous journey from their home country by taking out loans, often from people in Europe or in Nigeria who promise good earnings. The loan finances their journey and counterfeit documents, and might even secure them a job if they are fortunate enough to make it across European borders.
Some of these migration stories include elements which align with the UN definition of trafficking, such as transportation, debt and deceit. However, others challenge the general understanding of human trafficking on which Danish legislation and interventions are based in one significant aspect. Most of the time, the women have chosen to travel to Europe in the hope of a better life: a hope that is sometimes shattered.
