Real Love or the Dark Reality of Human Trafficking? A Literature Examination of Filipina Mail-Order Brides

Abstract

This paper examines available literature of the practice of the mail-order bride industry, both within historical and contemporary contexts, with particular emphasis on Filipina women. With thousands of women immigrating to Western countries annually through the unregulated market of the marriage-order industry, scholars offer differing perspectives on the legitimacy of the arrangements. This paper analyzes the arguments made by scholars that the practice is inherently abusive, subjecting women to human trafficking. It also considers the arguments that mail-order marriages can be an empowering opportunity, citing the economic and social advantages afforded by immigrating to Western countries. Lastly, through available research which conducted interviews with mail-order brides, this paper examines women’s firsthand experiences and thoughts regarding the industry and their satisfaction within their marriages.