Background. Human trafficking is a severe trans-national issue that affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the most severe forms of human exploitation. Countries across the globe have developed protocols and practices to protect the victims. Compared to many other countries, in Denmark female victims exploited into sex-work are of higher priority in the development of anti- trafficking procedures in comparison with their male counterparts. This has left victims of labor trafficking and forced crime, typically men, at a disadvantage with regards to legal and social support. 

Aim. This study aims to uncover the systemic, legislative and societal factors in Denmark that contribute to the invisibility and criminalization of the male victims of trafficking.

Methods. This study employed a qualitative approach by conducting semi- structured interviews with ten professionals working across different sectors within the Danish anti-trafficking field. A thematic analysis was then composed in relation to the interview data. 

Results. The findings point to the effects of dominating societal attitudes, discourses and media on both policy and practice. Furthermore, concepts of gender, spirituality and ethnic norms can also contribute to the invisibility of male victims of trafficking. On a systemic level, the results highlight a need for more collaborative and inclusive methods between sectors to engender best practices. Additionally, the findings revealed the need for systemically recognized indicators of trafficking which would aid the identification process of male victims. Moreover, the data exposed how the system contributes to the deprivation of liberty that the male victims may encounter.

Conclusions. These results emphasize the need for comprehensive directives that target identifying and assisting male victims through the presence of specialization and trainings. Finally, the results call for legislative action in ensuring that these men are defined as victims rather than perpetrators and that future research is dedicated to this issue.