Bachpan Bachao Andolan (BBA) conducted an undercover survey of all circuses in India to discover the magnitude of child labor and trafficking in the circus industry. There is a serious problem of trafficking of young girls between Nepal and India. Both countries are on the Tier 2 Watch list in U.S. Department of State Trafficking in Persons Report. The girls are trafficked for the purposes of slavery, including sexual slavery and prostitution.
Tackling Child Trafficking Across Borders
Due to the socio–political situation in Nepal, coupled with illiteracy and ignorance, a large number of children (especially girls) are trafficked into India. Within India, the unorganized sectors like the entertainment industry, circuses, agriculture, brothels, etc., play a willing host to these victims. Many industrial laws are not applicable in these sectors. There is little or no significant effort on the part of the government to prevent these practices. Thus, a pro-active initiative by the civil society sector was imperative in the prevention of abuse and exploitation in these sectors.
The BBA in India came across a number of complaints by parents in Nepal. They had been duped into sending their children across the border to work in Circuses. They had no idea of their children’s whereabouts. The BBA conducted an undercover survey of circuses in India to learn more about the magnitude of the problem in 2002.
The survey concluded that children appear in large numbers in all circuses. It also reported that no industrial laws govern the circuses. Therefore, an advocacy campaign launched focusing on the sources of trafficking of children. The primary areas of concern included Hetauda, Makwanpur in Nepal and Bihar and West Bengal in India. Simultaneously, negotiations with the industry resulted in a multi-faceted approach. It targeted potential victims as well as the victims already being exploited.
Ending Child Exploitation in Indian Circuses
In January 2004, constant pressure on the Indian Circus Federation led to a significant declaration. The Bachpan Bachao Andolan (BBA) and the Indian Circus Federation (ICF) agreed that no children would be used in Indian circuses. As a result, more than 80 children and young women were freed from circuses. They were liberated through voluntary releases and raid-and-rescue operations.
Child trafficking is a global issue that needs a united effort. Sharing successful strategies and real experiences can help others address this problem. A multi-faceted approach can effectively end exploitation and abuse in different areas.
For information on a related tactic to address child labor and trafficking read our in-depth case study.
The Bachpan Bachao Andolan (BBA) tactic of conducting undercover surveys in circuses highlights the importance of thorough research in tackling child trafficking. By understanding the extent of the problem, BBA was able to launch a targeted advocacy campaign, which ultimately led to significant change. This approach emphasizes the need for proactive civil society initiatives, especially in regions where governmental action is lacking. However, challenges include potential backlash from powerful stakeholders and the risk of jeopardizing the safety of undercover operatives. This tactic can be adapted to other contexts, such as combating human trafficking in agriculture or the entertainment industry, where unregulated sectors similarly exploit vulnerable populations. Collaboration and shared strategies among organizations can amplify efforts to combat trafficking globally.
New Tactics in Human Rights does not advocate for or endorse specific tactics, policies or issues.
