Developing a sampling frame of potential trafficking victims using geo-mapping techniques

Given the hidden nature of trafficking in labourers, it is inherently difficult to research. Although identifying victims who are currently being exploited may be the most effective mechanism for generating estimates of the prevalence of trafficking, most research on trafficking in labourers has focused on cases known to law enforcement or service providers. To overcome this obstacle and generate a prevalence estimate of trafficking in persons for the purpose of agricultural labour, a sampling frame of potential victims needs to be constructed. This article contains a description of an innovative technique for developing a sampling frame of migrant farmworkers using geographical data on farming practices to identify where workers may live and employing mobile devices to capture digital images and Global Positioning System coordinates to serve as a surrogate for a household’s address or description with traditional field enumeration. Results of a pilot test demonstrate the feasibility and efficiency of developing a sampling frame using this technique.

Related Subject(s): Drugs Crime and Terrorism