National Responses to a Global Issue: Stakeholder Perceptions and Strategies in Combating Human Trafficking in Kenya

Abstract

This thesis examines the connection between stakeholder perceptions and strategies within the field of counter-trafficking efforts in Kenya. As a global phenomenon, human trafficking is a widespread issue in virtually every country with its roots deeply embedded in society. This study investigates the role of stakeholders in Kenya by analyzing what elements are perceived as driving Kenyan vulnerability towards human trafficking operations, how these intersect with stakeholder strategies, and what stakeholders perceive as being the issues and gaps within the current state of stakeholder strategies. This examination is based on a total of eight datasets; six semi-structured interviews were conducted with stakeholders located in Kenya who all currently have or have had professional experience within the field of counter-trafficking efforts; one research report affiliated with the Kenyan government; and one action plan and strategic framework of the Kenyan government’s Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Services. These datasets were processed and analyzed through an iterative process of method triangulation of open coding and thematic content analysis allowed for the thematic categorization of interview data as well as document content. With the focus being on stakeholder perceptions and -strategies an abductive method of reasoning was applied to offer contextualized and theory-informed results through the use of triangulation of datasets and to a limited extent, secondary literature. Due to the formulation of interview questions, the data does not provide insight into whether strategies are successful in their implementation, but rather detailed descriptions of which strategies are implemented. Thus, this thesis does not concern itself how impactful stakeholder strategies are on beneficiaries, but rather if said strategies intersect with drivers of human trafficking. Specifically, a discrepancy was found in the intersecting nature of how and where stakeholders implement strategies to address drivers in the social environment of an individual. Furthermore, this thesis also found that both issues and future strategies of counter-trafficking focused majorly on stakeholder aspects, specifically the Kenyan government’s function as well as the overall conditions of Kenyan society. Overall, this thesis contributes to existing scholarly research on drivers of human trafficking in Kenya but is unique in its inclusion of stakeholder perceptions on the matter, thereby contributing new knowledge to the field of research. This thesis recommends research to be conducted on stakeholders’ pivotal role within counter-trafficking efforts as well as the stakeholder distinction that emerged concerning drivers and issues as this may have important repercussions for stakeholder strategies.

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A master thesis from Aalborg University

National Responses to a Global Issue: Stakeholder Perceptions and Strategies in Combating Human Trafficking in Kenya