78223 Law of Slavery and Human Trafficking

Description

Slavery and human trafficking are transnational crimes. This subject comprehensively explains and evaluates international and domestic responses to slavery and human trafficking within an international law and human rights framework. While the subject addresses international law, it does so with an appreciation of the practical application of the law. The subject draws students to a critical evaluation of the state's responsibility to protect and support, and develop effective criminal justice responses. Areas covered include: the legal definitions; the international legal framework; the intersection between migrant worker exploitation, slavery and trafficking; the gender implications of slavery; trafficking and refugee law; and trafficking as a crime against humanity. State responsibility at international law is reviewed to develop a sound knowledge of the state's obligations to protect and support as well as to promote the application of effective remedies. An effective domestic and international criminal justice response is critical in the development of a framework to prevent trafficking and ensure prosecution of transnational crimes. The dimension of slavery and trafficking — the link between such transnational crimes, economic opportunities, substandard working conditions and migration — is explored. Vulnerability to trafficking, the issues of demand and the supply chain, and corruption are addressed, as well as compliance standards, monitoring mechanisms and the role of civil society. Finally, the course concludes with consideration of a body of international literature which is critical to the implementation of anti-trafficking measures.

At the end of the course, students are expected to have a deep understanding of the principles of international law and their application within the Australian domestic context. Students also gain sophisticated insight and understanding of the application of international law through a comprehensive evaluation of selected areas of law.