Assessing the prevalence and dimensions of human trafficking involving lamani tribes with a view to suggest possible interventions
Financial support: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)

Summary

Goa is a well-known tourist destination in India. Previous studies carried out in Goa have highlighted that job opportunities created on account of tourism have been one of the pull factors attracting migrants into Goa. Amongst the various tourism induced migrant groups that come into Goa one relevant migrant group is the Goaarmattis, a tribal group popularly referred to as lamanis in Goa. In the recent years, Urray, (2007), de Souza and Nair (2006) and WISE (2005) suggests the prevalence of sex tourism involving migrants in Goa.

This project aims to study the linkages between the lamani migrants and human trafficking for sexual exploitation in Goa. More specifically the study will address the following objectives:
Understand the factors (both push and pull) that motivate migration to Goa amongst the lamanis.
Assess the prevalence and dimensions of human trafficking for sexual exploitation involving the lamani tribes in Goa.
Examine the factors that influence/perpetuate human trafficking for sexual exploitation involving lamani tribes.
Suggest solutions to mitigate and avert human trafficking for sexual exploitation within the lamani tribes

An in-depth literature review will be conducted to understand the prevalence of sex tourism involving migrants in Goa. In addition to the above, the review of literature will also help to understand and compile data relating to the historical and socio-economic background, the socio-legal set up and the status of women and children in the lamani tribe. Participatory research, using focus group discussions, in depth interviews, mapping and diagramming will be used to identify the push and pull factors that influence / motivate migration as well as those that promotes human trafficking for sexual exploitation. In depth interviews with key persons will provide information relating to the prevalence and manner in which human trafficking for sexual exploitation involving the lamani tribe is carried out in Goa.