Rose in Paradise | Human Trafficking Documentary

The human trafficking documentary, Rose in Paradise, raises the question of whether people are seen merely as commodities or if there is something more valuable within us. This thought-provoking film seeks answers from victims of human trafficking who find themselves trapped in the sex industry, as well as the individuals working behind the scenes to assist and support them in the sun-soaked setting of Cyprus.

The main target audience of the documentary is upper-grade and high school students. The film provides insight into why human trafficking has become a significant problem in today’s world, exploring the factors that contribute to its persistence and growth. Additionally, it sheds light on how both young and older individuals, who spend time online across the globe, can take action and make a difference regarding this issue.

Although human trafficking is a challenging subject, the documentary is filmed in a realistic environment without excessive cruelty, making it suitable for young audiences and sensitive individuals.

The film focuses on real stories and highlights the fact that the victims of human trafficking are not solely beautiful and seductive young women exploited for profit. Many of them are mothers with children back home or ordinary women with professions, individual wills, and emotions. It sheds light on how their unfortunate circumstances have led them into the world of sex slavery and human trafficking.

human trafficking documentary

One prominent figure in the documentary is Pia Rendic, the founder and executive director of the anti-trafficking NGO, Vapauta Uhri ry, based in Finland and Cyprus. Rendic is recognized as an expert on human trafficking in Finnish media. She delivers lectures on pornography and human trafficking and has authored five Finnish books, including Faces of Human Trafficking (2015).

Documentary Information:

  • Title: Rose in Paradise Directors: Mika and Ruut Ahonen
  • Interviewees: Pia Rendic, Martin Dolan, and Laura Olkkonen
  • Language: English (subtitled in Finnish, Swedish, and Norwegian; dubbed in Russian)
  • Duration: 28 minutes
  • Year of Publication: 2015
  • Producer: Mika Ahonen Production
  • Company: Hurttimurtti