Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others

Persontrafficconvention

Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others is an international treaty aimed at combating human trafficking and the exploitation of prostitution. Adopted by the United Nations in 1949, the Convention marks a significant global effort to address and criminalize the trafficking of persons, particularly women and children, for the purpose of prostitution.

Overview

The Convention was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 2, 1949, and came into force on July 25, 1951. It requires ratifying states to punish any person who, to gratify the passions of another, procures, entices, or leads away, for purposes of prostitution, another person, even with the consent of that person. It also calls for the punishment of those who exploit the prostitution of others, manage or run brothels, and finance prostitution.

Key Provisions

The Convention includes several key provisions aimed at the suppression of trafficking and exploitation. These include:

• The criminalization of procuring, enticing, or leading away persons for the purposes of prostitution.
• The criminalization of running or financing brothels.
• Measures to prevent trafficking and to protect and assist victims of trafficking.
• The requirement for signatory countries to adopt legislative or other measures necessary to implement the provisions of the Convention.

Impact and Criticism

The Convention has been instrumental in promoting international cooperation in combating human trafficking and the exploitation of prostitution. It has led to the adoption of various national laws and policies aimed at addressing these issues. However, the Convention has also faced criticism, particularly from those who argue that it conflates all forms of prostitution with trafficking and exploitation, thereby potentially undermining the rights and agency of sex workers.

Current Status

As of the last update, a significant number of countries have ratified the Convention, demonstrating a global commitment to its objectives. However, the effectiveness of the Convention in combating trafficking and exploitation continues to depend on the willingness and ability of signatory states to implement its provisions effectively.

See Also

• Human trafficking
• Prostitution
• United Nations General Assembly
• International law