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International Human Trafficking: Measuring Clandestinity by the Structural Equation Approach

Author

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  • Rudolph, Alexandra

    (Heidelberg University)

  • Schneider, Friedrich

    (University of Linz)

Abstract

Worldwide human trafficking (HT) is the third most often registered international criminal activity, ranked only after drug and weapon trafficking. The aim of the paper is to measure the extent of HT inflows to destination countries. It proposes the application of the Multiple Indicators Multiple Causes (MIMIC) structural equation model in order to include potential causes and indicators in one model and generate an index of the intensity of HT in destination countries. Thus, we account for the unobservable nature of the crime as well as for visible aspects that both shape the extent of it. By including both dimensions of the trafficking process the model is applied over a period of ten years. The resulting measure orders 142 countries between 2000 and 2010 according to their potential of being a destination country based on characteristics of the trafficking process. The results are that OECD countries are the most likely destination countries while developing countries are less likely.

Suggested Citation

  • Rudolph, Alexandra & Schneider, Friedrich, 2013. "International Human Trafficking: Measuring Clandestinity by the Structural Equation Approach," IZA Discussion Papers 7867, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp7867
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Oasis Kodila-Tedika & Martin Mulunda Kabange, 2016. "Slave trade and Human Trafficking," Research Africa Network Working Papers 16/002, Research Africa Network (RAN).
    2. William R. DI PIETRO, 2015. "Human Trafficking and National Morality," Expert Journal of Economics, Sprint Investify, vol. 3(3), pages 161-166.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    latent variable; MIMIC models; human trafficking; structural equation models;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C39 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Other
    • F22 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - International Migration
    • K42 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - Illegal Behavior and the Enforcement of Law
    • K49 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - Other

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