This article examines the emerging links between human trafficking, sexual and gender-based violence, and terrorism, focusing on how terrorist groups target women and girls from opposing ideological or religious communities. It outlines how these crimes reinforce one another, with human trafficking facilitating sexual violence, sexual violence motivating trafficking, and both contributing to the spread of terror among civilian populations.
In light of indications that the International Criminal Court may investigate trafficking-related crimes in Libya, the authors argue that these interconnected forms of violence should be addressed together within international criminal proceedings. They contend that prosecuting these crimes in an integrated manner would advance the development of international criminal law and better reflect the full extent of harm experienced by victims.