Discussion

Abstract

Critically reviewing the conducted study, one can contend that further research on this topic would benefit from empirical field research in the form of interviews and focus groups with victims of human trafficking and forced labor as well as with (former) employees of KBR and their subcontractors. While conducting such research seems feasible, it would definitely involve difficulties locating individuals who are willing to talk about such sensitive issues. Furthermore, conducting research in a (post) conflict society like Iraq as well as countries like Kuwait or United Arab Emirates poses challenges as to security matters and cultural barriers. However, by applying the integrative theoretical model of state-corporate crime to human trafficking and forced labor by KBR and their subcontractors, this study provides highly valuable insights not only concerning the crimes of human trafficking and forced labor by KBR and their subcontractors. Concluding one can say that the explanations and insights provided in this thesis can be used as indicators for the analysis of future crimes committed by private military contractor (PMC), especially if these crimes are profit-driven and perpetrated by PMCs operating under cost-plus contracts like KBR in Iraq.