Sex trafficking in Nepal: Survivor characteristics and long-term outcomes

There has been little systematic research on therapy, rehabilitation, and social reintegration of women formerly trafficked into prostitution. This study examines characteristics and outcomes of Nepali sex trafficking survivors. Twenty case files of survivors rehabilitated in the shelter of an antitrafficking NGO were randomly selected. All individuals in the sample suffered somatic and behavioral sequelae. Three quarters of the survivors eventually returned to their villages to live. These results suggest that current rehabilitation and reintegration programs are producing positive results. However, there is need for more systematic diagnosis, record keeping, and outcome studies as well as education to reduce stigma and promote safe migration practices.