Exploitation through begging as a form of trafficking in human beings – over-estimated or under-reported?

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 both 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.