Illuminating the Nature of Systemic Vulnerability to Cross-Border Human Trafficking: the Bangladesh-Malaysia Corridor

The research behind this report stems from a desire to more deeply understand the forces that make Bangladeshi migrants vulnerable to trafficking (particularly along the migration corridor from Bangladesh to Malaysia) and to contribute to efforts by Winrock International and others to combat trafficking through safe migration.

We emphasise a systemic approach to understanding vulnerability, moving beyond individual-level factors to examine wider social, economic, and political systems. Through interviews and literature review in Bangladesh and Malaysia, key mechanisms contributing to migrant vulnerability were identified, including challenges in policy implementation, exploitation by brokers, and legal limitations.

Our research underscores the need for comprehensive strategies that address systemic issues. Ultimately, effective prevention requires navigating power dynamics and addressing structural barriers to protect migrants and prosecute traffickers effectively.

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