The lived experiences of Ethiopian women trafficked to the Middle East: Departure motives, gender-specific trauma, and coping strategies

Objective: The primary focus of the study was to explore the psychosocial experiences, abuses, and exploitations, and adaptation mechanisms of Ethiopian women who were victims of trafficking in the Middle East countries. The study explores contributing factors to trafficking, mental health impacts, significant forms of abuses and exploitations, victims' coping strategies, and post trafficking situations. Method: a phenomenological qualitative approach was used using a semi-structured in-depth interview with 30 Ethiopian women who survived human trafficking. To identify key patterns in the participants' narratives, thematic analysis was used. Results: The results of the study show that economic hardship, gender-based violence, and the need for a better life were the primary causes of trafficking. Survivors endured harsh labor exploitation, economic exploitation, sexual abuse, and psychological trauma. Social isolation, combined with language and cultural barriers, aggravated their agony. After being released from trafficking, survivors faced health decline, psychological trauma, and substance abuse. The coping mechanisms used by victims were spirituality, writing, music, familial support, and maladaptive strategies. Conclusion: The findings of the study emphasize the need for trauma-informed interventions, psychosocial supports, and legal protections for human trafficking victim survivors. Policymakers and service providers should address systematic vulnerabilities and optimize rehabilitation efforts to mitigate long-term consequences.