In 2007, in response to growing awareness of the trafficking and exploitation of adults and children, IDVSA began to study the various effects and policy needs as a result of this issue. IDVSA has emerged as a leader in the field of researching the impact and prevalence of human trafficking. While this topic proves particularly challenging to study, by nature of the crime of trafficking and exploitation, IDVSA has championed various innovative methods to gain a clear picture of human trafficking in the state of Texas. IDVSA studies various forms of trafficking, including labor and sex trafficking with a particular focus on vulnerable populations like refugees and children.
NSF Human Trafficking Supply Chain Networks (2018-present)
This study, funded by the National Science Foundation, aims to explore ways to disrupt human trafficking supply chains after natural disasters, such as Hurricane Harvey. The study will inform policymakers, business owners and regulators so they can better combat human trafficking in the construction industry.
Child Sex Trafficking in Texas: Experiences and Risk (2019)
This study looked at child sex trafficking in 3 regions in Texas: Houston, Lubbock and along the Texas-Mexico border. Researchers with IDVSA and the Bureau of Business Research at the IC2 Institute investigated the pathways to childhood sex trafficking, risks of victimization, and interactions with social services…
Statewide Human Trafficking Mapping Project for Texas (2016)
This project provided answers to three essential research questions: What is the prevalence of human trafficking in Texas? What is the economic impact of human trafficking in Texas? And, what is our understanding of human trafficking in Texas?
