ABSTRACT
Situations of exploitation through begging have been reported in recent years in various corners of the globe, some of which involve elements of trafficking in human beings, affecting children and adults. The identification of exploitation through begging as a form of trafficking by the relevant authorities, however, remains minimal. It is not clear whether this is indicative of a lack of active identification and investigation, or of a relatively low incidence of this form of trafficking. This chapter examines the characteristics of this form of trafficking and the factors influencing low levels of identification of begging cases that constitute trafficking in human beings. A major characteristic that distinguishes trafficking for exploitation through begging from other forms of trafficking is its visibility in the public space. Age is a determining factor as to whether children begging are accompanied, monitored from a distance or acting alone or in groups. Begging is not always a form of trafficking committed by a criminal network.
