Football Trafficking: A Legal Analysis of the Trade of African Minors

This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the illicit practice of football trafficking, focusing on the exploitation of underage African players being transferred to Europe. It delves into the broader context of human trafficking, examining relevant international laws and their application to football. Through critical analysis of FIFA’s regulatory framework, the book questions the effectiveness of the organisation’s current anti-trafficking policies and proposes actionable solutions for reform. By integrating theoretical insights with practical recommendations, the book outlines strategies such as Sport for Development and Peace (SDP) programmes and child-centred approaches to protect vulnerable young athletes and address some of the core factors that drive the occurrence of the crime.

This book is an essential resource for scholars, policymakers, legal professionals, and stakeholders in the sports industry. It offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between sports, law, and human rights, making it particularly relevant for those interested in sports law, international law, and human trafficking prevention. Readers will benefit from the book’s in-depth exploration of the regulatory challenges at play and the array of proposed remedies, giving readers a deeper understanding of how to create a safer and more ethical environment for the at-risk youths involved in football globally.

Ini-Obong Nkang is a Sports Law Advisor at Mills & Reeve LLP and was previously a Course Leader for Sports Business and Sports Law.