Online Program Home
  My Program

All Times EDT

Abstract Details

Activity Number: 326 - Recent Developments in Probabilistic Record Linkage, Multiple Systems Estimation, and Entity Resolution
Type: Invited
Date/Time: Thursday, August 12, 2021 : 10:00 AM to 11:50 AM
Sponsor: Survey Research Methods Section
Abstract #316572
Title: Multiple Systems Estimation for the Quantification of Modern Slavery: A Comparative Study Regarding the Accuracy of Current Methods
Author(s): Olivier Binette* and Rebecca C. Steorts
Companies: Duke University and Duke University
Keywords: multiple systems estimation; modern slavery ; human trafficking
Abstract:

We are motivated by recent attempts at quantifying the extent of modern slavery and human trafficking using multiple systems estimation (MSE) methodology. Despite the broad range of MSE approaches available to practitioners, little guidance is provided regarding their underlying assumptions and their accuracy in applications. We provide a comparative analysis of MSE methods on both synthetic and real data based upon previously carried studies in the literature. Furthermore, we characterize the large sample bias of large classes of MSE estimators when underlying assumptions are not satisfied. This is used to identify potential sources of bias in MSE studies and to precisely quantify their effect on resulting estimates. Finally, we provide guidance based upon our work regarding how existing methods can and should be used in practice.


Authors who are presenting talks have a * after their name.

Back to the full JSM 2021 program