The ‘Lover Boy’ Method: Iana Speaks to Students and Parents

The latter part of March, Iana travelled to northeastern Romania to speak with students and parents in two local high schools about the “Lover Boy” recruitment method of human trafficking. Through this method the recruiter targets and lures a vulnerable young girl into a false romantic relationship, creates an emotional and physical dependency, then coerces the victim into sexual exploitation.

Teachers, parents and students all indicated that the theme is highly relevant and under-discussed and were appreciative that they were able to talk openly about human trafficking. Numerous questions were raised and good participation took place during the interactive discussions and role-based activities.

Iana will do follow-up sessions as requested and make available a clear teaching module that explains the indicators of trafficking risk, the psychological manipulation stages, real-life scenarios and clear pathways to receive help.

From the Romanian Review – April 2026 newsletter.