TITLE:
Unsafe in a Safe Country: Evaluating the Support and Reintegration Challenges for Albanian Trafficking Victims within the Context of the UK’s “Safe Country” Designation
AUTHORS:
Kevin Guri, Sarah Rees
KEYWORDS:
Trafficking, Domestic Violence, Immigration, Mental Health, Social Services, Support
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.12 No.5,
May
31,
2024
ABSTRACT: This research delves into the multifaceted challenges of human trafficking and domestic violence in Albania, set against the backdrop of its designation as a “safe country of origin” by the United Kingdom. It critically examines the implications of this designation for the safety and welfare of trafficking victims and explores the socio-cultural and legal landscapes that underpin the phenomena. Through a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both qualitative interviews with professionals and analysis of secondary data, the study highlights the inadequacies in support structures for victims upon their return to Albania. It reveals that despite legislative efforts and international cooperation, returned victims face significant obstacles in reintegration, including social stigma, economic hardship, and psychological trauma. The research underscores the need for comprehensive, evidence-based approaches to improve support and protection mechanisms for trafficking victims, questioning the efficacy of Albania’s current anti-trafficking framework and the UK’s safe country designation. By focusing on the lived experiences of victims and the effectiveness of support services, this study contributes valuable insights into the complexities of trafficking in Albania and the impact of recent policy changes on victim support and protection.