Understanding Human Trafficking in Iowa: Preliminary Results

• In Event: Human Trafficking Measurement

Abstract

Little is known about the prevalence of human trafficking in the state of Iowa. ICF International has been funded by the Iowa Attorney General’s Office to gain a better understanding about the prevalence of both sex and labor trafficking in Iowa, level of awareness among stakeholders across the state on definitions and occurrence of human trafficking, services available that are specific to survivors of human trafficking, and the experiences of survivors. The goal of the study is to ultimately raise awareness in the community concerning human trafficking, inform training needs for service professionals, and foster collaboration among agencies to address human trafficking in Iowa. This presentation will provide an overview of the mixed methods research design and preliminary findings from the stakeholder survey, including (1) beliefs and attitudes of service providers concerning human trafficking; (2) current strategies for identification and response to human trafficking; (3) collaboration among service providers and law enforcement; (4) perceived barriers to service provision; and (5) recommendations for improving services to victims of sex and labor trafficking.

Authors

• Samantha Lowry, ICF International

• Alana M. Henninger, ICF International / CUNY Graduate Center

• Saniya Seera, ICF International

• Janine Crossman, ICF International