Date of Award
Spring 5-18-2024
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Advisor(s)
Heather Gautney
Second Advisor
Kate Wilson, Ph.D.
Abstract
Sexual trafficking in Mexico continues to be a significant crisis raising multiple challenges for women who exit this oppressive network. This study examines two sides of post trafficking: the interrelated needs and challenges these survivors face when they return or escape from a trafficking situation, and how NGOs strategize. A significant aspect of the study focuses on employment: the transition from sexual exploitation to securing legitimate employment and acquiring an independent life and how NGO staff work to support them. Drawing on survivor testimonies along with interviews (both published and two conducted for this project), the study delineates that they have numerous needs and face layers of challenges for reintegration. The study considers how NGOs strategize to meet complex needs for re-entry— for finding new kinds of work after forced sexual labor. Furthermore, the study also examines the long-term impacts on survivors, investigating the aftermath of their traumatic experiences and how these effects can influence their ability to recover. Hence, this study contributes to understanding this important later phase of perpetual rape and violation of human dignity. Inadequate legal structures, cultural factors and stigmatization, psychological trauma and vulnerability are some of the obstacles survivors face with few resources –besides a network of NGOs– available for their recovery.
Recommended Citation
Aboumrad, Mariana, "“From depression, to an overdose of crack, to trying to kill myself”: Post-trafficking Mexican women survivors’ challenges and NGO’s strategies in rehabilitation" (2024). Senior Theses. 141.
https://research.library.fordham.edu/international_senior/141
