An opinion essay argues that the United Kingdom grooming gangs scandal should be understood as a form of modern slavery within a Western democracy. Drawing on sociologist Orlando Patterson’s concept of 'social death,' the author contends that the systematic sexual exploitation of vulnerable girls amounted to permanent, violent domination that stripped victims of social standing, protection, and personhood.

Using Patterson’s framework, the article describes how victims experienced violent control through rape, coercion, and intimidation; symbolic separation from family, community, and citizenship; and profound public degradation. The abuse, which occurred in towns including Rotherham, Rochdale, and Telford, involved organized groups of men and persisted for years while authorities failed to intervene effectively.

The essay also applies social psychological theory to argue that the victims were denied core human needs such as belonging, understanding, personal control, self worth, and trust. According to the author, institutional inaction and fear of cultural tensions contributed to the prolonged abuse, deepening the harm and eroding trust in public institutions.

The article concludes that the long term consequences will include lasting damage to social cohesion and public trust in the United Kingdom. By failing to protect vulnerable girls, the author argues, authorities allowed a grave form of organized sexual exploitation that will have enduring effects on intergroup relations and confidence in the state.