| Since the 1990s, the Turkish illegal sex market has grown rapidly. The number of foreign sex workers, either voluntary or involuntary, has boomed; ninety-five percent of them come from the former Soviet Union Countries. Even though both involuntary and involuntary sex workers have similar living conditions in their home countries, some of these women become victims of sex trafficking, some of them make money and work in the sex market within their free will. Therefore, this study examined the similarities and differences between both groups by using the qualitative and quantitative research methods in light of a theoretical perspective. The Routine Activity and Lifestyle Exposure theories were applied to this phenomenon.;There were three main data source utilized. First, the statements of involuntary and voluntary sex workers taken by Turkish National Police were analyzed in the qualitative research method. Second, in-depth interviews of experts, including police, a prosecutor, a judge, local and non-governmental organization staff members who interact with foreign sex workers were conducted. Thirdly, official data and statistics were used in the study.;The findings revealed statistically significant differences between both groups, including demographic and motivational attributes, and also identified risk factors involved in becoming a victim of sex trafficking. Overall, the results of analysis also revealed considerable information about the victimization process of women in Turkey and the secret world of the sex trafficking cycle. |
