76034 Law of Slavery and Human Trafficking

Description

This subject examines and evaluates the evolution of international and domestic legal responses to human trafficking and modern slavery. Slavery, servitude, forced labour, forced marriage and human trafficking are transnational crimes and violations of human rights. Students investigate and evaluate developments in international and domestic legal responses to human trafficking and modern slavery, within an international law and human rights framework. While the subject addresses international law, it also examines the practical application of the law of slavery and human trafficking in the Australian context. Key areas of focus include: the international legal framework; legal definitions, including the concept of ‘modern slavery’; domestic responses to human trafficking and modern slavery; the intersection between migrant worker exploitation and ‘modern slavery’; the gendered dimensions of slavery; human trafficking and international refugee law; and slavery and trafficking in persons as a crime against humanity. State responsibility at international law is examined to develop students' understanding of the obligations to protect and support victims of slavery and trafficking in persons, as well as provide access to effective remedies.

Students conduct independent legal research about critical issues in the evolution of international and domestic legal responses to human trafficking and slavery. Students collaborate with peers to examine critical issues raised in recent Australian reviews of Modern Slavery Act 2018(Cth) and the criminal justice response, as well as international and domestic jurisprudence. Drawing on recent cases, news reports and research, students critically evaluate the law of slavery and human trafficking in practice and deploy their legal research skills to contribute to current law and policy reform debates.