Estimating the size of hard-to-reach populations using capture-recapture methodology, with a discussion of the International Labour Organization’s global estimate of forced labour: Special issue: Researching hidden populations: approaches to and methodologies for generating data on trafficking in persons.

Abstract

The authors present an overview of capture-recapture methodology and the multiplier method so that researchers interested in estimating the size and characteristics of a population in the area of trafficking in persons can have an idea of how to approach this problem and what the advantages and drawbacks of this methodology are. The methodology can be used for the production of local estimates as well as national or global estimates. Suggestions are made for improving the International Labour Organization’s global estimate of forced labour.