Human Trafficking as Human Security Failure: Bridging Criminal Law, Development Policy, and Regional Cooperation in South Asia

Abstract

Human trafficking remained one of the most critical transnational crimes and a significant threat to human security, particularly in developing regions where socio-economic vulnerabilities and institutional weaknesses persisted. This study examined human trafficking in South Asia by integrating perspectives from criminal law, development policy, and regional cooperation. The research adopted a qualitative analytical design based on secondary data obtained from scholarly literature, policy reports, and institutional documents. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to evaluate the relative importance of key policy dimensions associated with anti-trafficking efforts. The findings indicated that development and poverty reduction policies demonstrated the highest effectiveness (M = 4.15, SD = 0.65), highlighting the importance of socio-economic interventions in addressing the root causes of trafficking. Victim protection and rehabilitation mechanisms also showed strong significance (M = 4.11, SD = 0.67), while criminal law enforcement capacity recorded a moderate but important impact (M = 4.03, SD = 0.72). However, regional cooperation mechanisms showed comparatively lower effectiveness (M = 3.94, SD = 0.75), indicating the need for stronger cross-border coordination among South Asian countries. The results suggested that trafficking could not be effectively addressed through criminal justice responses alone but required an integrated human security approach that combined legal enforcement with development initiatives and regional collaboration. Strengthening governance systems, promoting socio-economic development, and enhancing regional partnerships were therefore essential for combating trafficking networks and protecting vulnerable populations in South Asia.