Currently, Indonesia is faced with the challenge of „modern human trafficking‟; a problem which continues to increase. Technology and social media are some of the tools which, on one hand, have been used to detect and understand the signs of this shameful behaviour, while on the other hand, facilitating this very act. In this study, the author aims to discover and understand the social challenges contributing to human trafficking, in terms of causes, recruitment patterns, victims‟ self-awareness, role of the family and society in awareness creation, and also the contribution of technology and social media in sensitising the public to the signs and factors promoting human trafficking. The findings of this study reveal that factors leading to human trafficking include both primary factors (such as poverty and lack of education) and secondary factors (which include lifestyle and the desire to be dutiful to parents). However, it was further established that these factors comprised an amalgamation of local, national, and global cultures which have been brought about as either direct human interaction or through information and communication technologies or the widespread social media, which have influenced victims‟ lifestyles and forced them to find an easier (instant) way to gain wealth. In conclusion, this study identifies learning methods that could be used across fields to promote understanding and a social inquiry on problems existing in society. © Research India Publications.

Self awarenes Social awareness Social studies (social sciences) Human trafficking Family

[No Keywords available]