What element must be present in cases of human trafficking?

The element that must be present in cases of human trafficking is force, fraud, or coercion. This criterion is essential in defining human trafficking, as it distinguishes trafficking from consensual activities. The presence of force, fraud, or coercion indicates that the victim is being manipulated or controlled against their will, whether through physical means, deception, or psychological pressure. This understanding emphasizes the exploitation of vulnerable individuals and underscores the crime's severity and moral implications.

While movement of the victim can occur in human trafficking scenarios, it is not a requisite element for the definition. Additionally, the victim's consent is irrelevant in these cases—real consent cannot exist when force, fraud, or coercion is used. Employment contracts might be involved in certain trafficking situations, but they do not define or constitute human trafficking on their own. The core focus is on the mechanisms of exploitation through force, fraud, or coercion, which is why this element is critical in identifying and prosecuting human trafficking cases.