Free under kinship care? A phenomenological exploration of reintegrated victims of child trafficking in Ghana

Abstract

Background

The discourse on post-rescue experiences of formerly trafficked children is gradually gaining traction following recent critiques of anti-trafficking policy. Post-rescue discourses primarily aim to examine the best possible environment necessary for rehabilitation and reintegration of formerly trafficked children. In developing countries such as Ghana, formerly trafficked children are mostly placed in kinship care.

Objective

The study explored experiences of formerly trafficked children who have been reintegrated under the care of kin by child rights NGOs.

Participants and study area

The study draws on phenomenological interviews with 22 formerly trafficked children in Winneba who have been reintegrated under the care of kin.

Results

The study revealed mixed experiences for formerly trafficked children placed in kinship care. Specifically, while care by grandparents yielded positive outcomes for most formerly trafficked children, while care by other relatives was not particularly pleasant. Some of the formerly trafficked children combined work with schooling and apprenticeship training, while others had completely dropped out of school in pursuit of work.

Conclusions

This paper argues for the need to recognise and address the socio-economic factors that underline the trafficking of children in Ghana.