Samenvatting

In this contribution the authors describe their explorative research into the use of forced tattooing in human trafficking. They have spoken with eight professionals and with three victims that were forced into sexwork. Based on these interviews the researchers come to the conclusions that a lot of important questions remain open: the frequency of the use of tattoos and the circumstances under which this practice takes place. Nevertheless, the interviews with the victims demonstrate the serious impact of these tattoos on their wellbeing and further life course. Therefore, it is advised that professionals ask more questions about tattoos when they come into contact with victims of human trafficking.