Open Secrets: An Irish Perspective on Trafficking and Witchcraft [Kindle Edition]

If you thought slavery and witches were from another era Open Secrets: An Irish Perspective on Trafficking & Witchcraft will dispel that myth! This book from Jennifer deWan and David Lohan is a must read for anyone trying to understand the problem of human trafficking. It combines academic research and first hand contact with migrants in Cois Tine a support Centre for migrants in Cork.
The book brings new insights into the role of witchcraft especially its role in the control of the victims of trafficking. Dr. deWan looks at how witchcraft in the African culture was a positive thing a `system of values that regulates human conduct' but today it is often used as a weapon `where `adults and children are illegally traded like commodities'. She explains how magic and witchcraft are used as oaths to bind trafficked or smuggled people to their traffickers and ensure they will not try to escape. De Wan points out that `misunderstanding can cloud our understanding of the cultural, spiritual and historical context for witchcraft beliefs and practices especially regarding African witchcraft that is happening in Ireland.' This book certainly brings new insights into the question of how the trafficker controls their victims who seem from the outside to be willing slaves i.e. labourers or prostitutes.
David Lohan looks at the situation of trafficking in Ireland and set it within the global problem of human trafficking which is estimated at 12.3 million victims. In Ireland there are about 1,000 women and girls working in prostitution at any one time charging 200 per hour. He reviews the legislation that is in place to deal with the problem. He highlights the link between prostitution, trafficking and money and concludes that it is with the' financial rewards that the exploration commences.' As well as case studies of victims Lohan shows a great empathy with the victims of sex trafficking and his chapter on Ungoing and Re-Doing the Self shows the complex needs of the victims well after they become free from their trafficker.
A welcome addition to our knowledge of the world inhabited by trafficked people in Ireland.