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Australia is a sex trafficking destination country for women from Southeast Asia, South Korea, and China. Since 2004, the government has made efforts to combat trafficking, including provisions in the Commonwealth Criminal Code, the Migration Act and the Crimes Act. Government prosecutions led to convictions of 13 pedophiles for sex tourism since 1994. They also enhanced victim assistance allowing new visas exclusively for victims. Last year Australian authorities investigated 38 trafficking cases and prosecuted 14 suspected traffickers, but they made no convictions.
Shared Hope International, in collaboration with its local partner Project Respect, uncovered more than 230 victims of sex trafficking during a 4-week investigation. Victim interviews conducted by SHI Founder Linda Smith unveiled the horrific underworld of trafficking that was flourishing under the guise of a legal regulated market. The victims were granted access to shelters and social services, and the government of Australia increased efforts to combat trafficking by passing new laws. However, victims are routinely deported instead of receiving the rehabilitation and justice they deserve.
(I'd like to support SHI's efforts in Australia now)
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