5.1-O1Labor exploitation and sexual violence in Latin America: the experience of Central American migrant women

Abstract

Background: Recent reports indicate that Latin America is the third largest source of human trafficking. The International Labour Organization estimates that globally 20.9 million people (mostly women) have been trafficked for labour and sexual exploitation. As labour exploitation of Central American (CA) migrant women has been increasing in the region, sexual violence, physical assault and rape are also increasingly reported. However, to date limited studies have assessed the risk or prevalence of sexual violence in the context of labour exploitation and subsequent health outcomes among migrant women in this region. Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with migrant women (n = 30) who reported recently working in the agricultural or domestic sector in Mexico. Participants were recruited through modified time location sampling in cities along the MexicoGuatemala border. Eligibility criteria included: 18 years or older; biologically female; being an international migrant; having worked as a domestic or agricultural sector in Mexico in < 5 years; and willing and able to provide informed consent. Interviews took 45-60 minutes and were conducted in private rooms in our study offices by female research assistants and audio-recorded. Results: The majority of women reported experiencing some form of labour exploitation, including sexual violence by either a coworker or supervisor. Previous experiences of gender-based violence and economic vulnerability perpetuated vulnerability to labour exploitation (including child labour) and sexual violence. The capacity to mitigate labour exploitation and sexual violence improved with increased age, control over working conditions and experience. Intersecting concerns related to immigration status, negative interactions with authorities during their migration (e.g., extortion) and compliance with labour regulations were identified as barriers to accessing health and legal services.