The Complexity of Labels

The Complexity of Labels: Rethinking How We Identify Victims of Trafficking

Navigating Perceptions

In our continuing exploration of human trafficking's intricate realities, we delve into the story of Jacob, whose experience challenges us to reconsider how we perceive and label victims of trafficking. This narrative highlights the complexities surrounding self-identification and the impact of societal preconceptions on those who have endured trafficking. For many, the idea of being labelled a "victim" can evoke feelings of shame, helplessness, or even the fear of being perceived as stupid, irresponsible and naive. Yet, these labels can have profound implications for the support and justice available to those affected.

A Reluctant Admission

When HopeNow first encountered Jacob in a prison, he was reserved, cautious, and adamant about not being identified as a victim of human trafficking. Despite his difficult circumstances, he expressed a desire to live what he described as “a straightforward life: to work in Denmark, pay his taxes, and be a good citizen”. With a promising opportunity to receive a contract to play on a local sports team, he had aspirations that extended beyond his current situation in prison. He was in prison because his asylum case in Denmark was rejected and he stayed in Denmark despite a deportation order. 

Throughout our interactions, Jacob was hesitant to share his full story. He refrained from labelling himself a victim, a reluctance that reflected the complex emotions and stigma associated with such an identity. Many individuals like him grapple with internal and external pressures—being labelled a victim can feel like an admission of defeat or weakness, a far cry from the resilience and resourcefulness that often define their survival. He also had undergone a spiritual oath in Nigeria called JuJu which bound him to silence. This method is  frequently used as a form of psychological coercion in West African Trafficking cases.  

The Turning Point

During the final visit from HopeNow, Jacob opened up about his trafficking experience and the oath. He revealed that he had been trafficked to Denmark via boat with a group of men and was picked up by his traffickers upon arrival. They demanded a payment of 40,000 euros and forced him to sell cocaine on the streets of Copenhagen. Bound by a Juju oath— the traditional spiritual vow that terrified him—he lived under constant threat, not just to himself but also to his family back in Nigeria. He told HopeNow that he was terribly ashamed of this “dirty job” he was forced to do but he saw no other way out. He only did this for a short time before he was able to find what he described as more ordinary work, called “black work” in Denmark. 

This admission marked a significant turning point. It underscored the deep-rooted fear and psychological manipulation that traffickers employ, often leaving victims isolated and powerless. Even after sharing his situation, Jacob remained reluctant to be formally identified as trafficked, wary of the bureaucratic process and skeptical about the help it could provide. His words resonated with a tragic acceptance of his fate: "I just want to get out of this prison, I am going crazy in here. It doesn’t matter anymore, I will be killed as soon as I get back to Nigeria anyways."

The Burden of Stigma

Jacob's story compels us to confront the burden of stigma and preconceived notions that accompany the label of "victim". Many individuals, especially men, resist this identification due to societal expectations of strength, independence, and self-sufficiency. The shame associated with being seen as someone who has been deceived, manipulated, or overpowered can be overwhelming. Moreover, the legal and societal frameworks in place often reinforce these stigmas, making it harder for survivors to come forward and seek the help they need.

We must rethink how we approach and support those who have been trafficked. Recognizing the need for empathy and understanding is crucial. We should create environments where individuals feel safe to share their stories without fear of judgment or further criminalization. The journey to self-identification as a trafficking victim is complex, and it’s essential to respect each person’s healing process and timing. Providing non-judgmental support can help break down the barriers that prevent survivors from receiving assistance and access to Justice. 

The Unknown Fate

Sadly, the conclusion to Jacob’s story remains unclear. On HopeNows next visit to the prison, we discovered he was deported, leaving behind many unanswered questions. Although he had signed a consent form for us to receive updates on his case, no further information was provided. He was deported without any financial assistance which is available for victims of human trafficking in Denmark. 

As we reflect on Jacob's story, we are reminded that the narratives we tell and the labels we use can shape the reality for those living through these experiences. Our challenge is to approach each individual with compassion and to work towards systems that protect and empower, rather than stigmatize and marginalize.

*All names and some details changed to protect the identity of the clients of HopeNow.