In 2024, the number of preliminary investigations into suspected human trafficking and exploitation concluded in Germany reached a record high since data collection began in 2000. According to the German Institute for Human Rights (DIM), three cases of human trafficking are identified in Germany every day. Women are particularly affected: About 97 percent of the victims of human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation recorded in preliminary investigations in Germany are female. Nearly one in four victims of human trafficking is a minor.
Physical Illnesses and Addiction as Consequences of Exploitation
“The health impacts of human trafficking are enormous,” says Dr. Uschi Traub, head of health promotion at the district’s health department. “We don’t just see sexually transmitted diseases like HIV, hepatitis, or chlamydia. Nicotine, alcohol, drug, and medication addiction are also major problems. Those affected turn to these substances to help them cope with the emotional and psychological trauma.” Furthermore, 70 to 95% of people forced into prostitution are subjected to physical violence—ranging from burns, bleeding lacerations, and bruises to broken bones. Serious psychological consequences include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), severe stress symptoms, panic attacks, and depression. The rate of developing PTSD in prostitution is more than twice as high as that for war victims, who have a 20 percent prevalence of developing PTSD.
Dangerous Deception: The Methods of Human Trafficking
Human trafficking often begins with false promises. In the so-called “loverboy” method, male perpetrators typically exploit the emotional vulnerability of younger women. Through feigned love and emotional dependence, they are gradually forced into prostitution. Others are lured to Germany with the prospect of a financially secure life or a job—for example, in nursing or the restaurant industry—and are subsequently exploited under abusive conditions.
Working Together Against Human Trafficking
Many victims are unaware of their rights, speak very little German, or do not know whom to turn to. That is why it is crucial to raise awareness of low-threshold support services and to reach victims early on.
Human trafficking is not a marginal phenomenon, but a serious human rights violation. “The fact that nearly all victims of sexual exploitation are women clearly highlights gender-based violence. That is why it is our shared responsibility to take notice, raise awareness, and strengthen access to support services,” emphasizes Cynthia Schönau, Equal Opportunity Officer for the Ludwigsburg district.
Support services:
- The nationwide “Violence Against Women” helpline: 116 016
- the specialized counseling center against sexual violence against children and adolescents “Silberdistel Ludwigsburg e.V.”: https://silberdistel-ludwigsburg.de/)
- The organization “Frauen für Frauen e.V.”: http://www.frauenfuerfrauen-lb.de/
- “Emergency Medical Care Following Rape” https://www.soforthilfe-nach-vergewaltigung.de/
