Panics without Borders: How Global Sporting Events Drive Myths about Sex Trafficking

Gregory Mitchell's research shows that sex trafficking never increases as a result of global mega-events like the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games, but police violence against sex workers always does. He charts the move of sex trafficking into the realm of the spectacular, where it spreads across borders and is easily exploited to frightening ends.

Format: Hardback
Length: 318 pages
Publication date: 13 September 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

The term "sex trafficking" has been greatly exaggerated and misused by a variety of groups, including evangelicals, conspiracy theorists, anti-prostitution feminists, and politicians with their own agendas. This is particularly evident during major international events such as the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games, when unfounded claims emerge that up to 40,000 women and girls will be subjected to sex trafficking.

In his book, "The Myth of Sex Trafficking: The Global Exploitation of Women and Children," Gregory Mitchell conducts extensive fieldwork in Brazil and interviews with sex workers, policymakers, missionaries, and activists in Russia, Qatar, Japan, the UK, and South Africa. Through his research, Mitchell debunks the myth that sex trafficking increases as a result of these global mega-events. Instead, he reveals that police violence against sex workers always escalates during these periods.

Mitchell delves into the discourse surrounding sex trafficking during these mega-events and explores the fears and motivations that drive this panic. He identifies the various stakeholders who benefit from perpetuating this myth, including politicians who use it to gain support, anti-prostitution feminists who argue that sex work is inherently exploitative, and media outlets who exploit it for sensationalism.

Mitchell also charts the move of sex trafficking into the realm of the spectacular, where it is portrayed as a global issue that requires immediate attention. This trend is dangerous because it is often exploited during moments of nationalist fervor, when fears of foreigners and migrants are heightened and used to justify repressive policies and practices.

In conclusion, the myth of sex trafficking has been greatly exaggerated and misused by a variety of groups, leading to harm and discrimination against sex workers. Gregory Mitchell's book provides a critical analysis of this issue and challenges the assumptions that underpin this myth. It is essential to approach discussions on sex trafficking with nuance and a critical eye, and to work towards policies that prioritize the safety and rights of all individuals involved in sex work.

Weight: 499g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520381766