Across all types of anti-trafficking programmes the evidence of impact is limited. A large number of studies highlight the paucity of data on trafficking, which many argue makes it difficult to conduct evaluations of anti-trafficking programmes. The absence of baseline data on levels of trafficking, and the failure to interview victims or survivors are particular problems. The fact that trafficking involves illegal networks means that conducting rigorous research on the topic is likely to remain inherently challenging.
Another important barrier to evaluation is the broad design of many anti-trafficking programmes and a lack of clarity about key terms and definitions. Most existing evaluations of anti-trafficking programmes have not been conducted by independent evaluators. Others argue however that there have been significant advances in what the analysis of trafficking and a much more complete picture of what needs to be done to overcome it has emerged in recent years.
Existing project evaluations tend to only demonstrate impact in terms of meeting stating objectives. In those evaluations examined for this report, where the wider impact was assessed there was no observable impact on levels of trafficking or no long-term impacts.
Some donor reviews have highlighted the success of programmes in raising awareness, but these tend to meet with limited results, primarily because awareness cannot prevent many from needing to take the risk of migrating.
Some studies have also identified additional unintended negative consequences of trafficking programmes, both in South Asia and elsewhere. Some trafficking programmes have exacerbated stigma and discrimination of trafficking victims and there are some examples of awareness programmes leading to an increased interest in working abroad.
