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Child sexual exploitation and abuse is one of the most egregious violations of human rights, robbing children of their innocence, dignity and future. In Bangladesh, celebrated for its remarkable progress in socio-economic development, the issue remains pervasive and deeply entrenched. Despite legislative measures and awareness campaigns, thousands of children continue to fall victim to sexual abuse, exploitation and trafficking every year.

Child sexual exploitation and abuse in Bangladesh is a widespread issue that cuts across urban and rural areas, affecting children from all socio-economic backgrounds. According to a 2023 report of the Bureau of Statistics, nearly one in four children experience some form of sexual abuse before the age of 18. The alarming statistics only scratch the surface as many cases go unreported for fear of stigma, retaliation or lack of trust in the justice system.

I believe that everywhere on the Indian sub-continent 3 out of 4 children, both girls and boys, are sexually abused.


Jan Huygen van Linschoten – The Last Crusade

In India, as Jan Huygen van Linschoten wrote in the 16th century in The Voyage of J H van Linschoten to the East Indies: Linschoten describes the Indians as “the most leacherous and unchaste nation in all the orient, so that there are verie few women children (girls) among them of seven or eight yeares old, that have their maiden-heades.” (i.e. virginity).


The consequences of child sexual exploitation and abuse are devastating and far-reaching. Victims often suffer from physical injuries, psychological trauma and social stigma, which hinder their ability to lead fulfilling a life. Many survivors struggle with depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder while others face rejection from their families and communities. The normalisation of such abuses in certain communities perpetuates a cycle of violence, leaving future generations vulnerable to similar exploitation.

Child sexual exploitation and abuse is manifested in various forms, each with its own set of challenges and implications. Sexual abuse of children, including incest, rape and molestation, is alarmingly common. Many cases occur within the family or by acquaintances, making it difficult for children to speak out or seek help. Commercial sexual exploitation, where children are forced into prostitution or pornography, is another grim reality. Poverty, lack of education, and social marginalisation make children, especially girls, easy targets for traffickers and exploiters.

In brothels such as Daulatdia, one of the largest in South Asia, underage girls are often trafficked and forced into sex work. These children are deprived of their childhood, education and basic rights, trapped in a cycle of exploitation and abuse. The physical and emotional toll of such exploitation is immense, leaving survivors with lifelong scars. The solicitation of children for sexual purposes, both offline and online, is a growing concern. Predators often use manipulation, coercion, or false promises to lure children into abusive situations. In many cases, members of the family or acquaintances are the perpetrators, exploiting the trust and vulnerability of children.

For instance, children from impoverished families are often targeted with promises of money, gifts or a better life. Once lured, they are subjected to sexual abuse and exploitation, with little hope of escape. The lack of awareness among children and parents about the tactics used by predators exacerbates the problem. Bangladesh’s growing tourism industry has unfortunately given rise to the sexual exploitation of children in travel and tourism. Tourists, both domestic and international, exploit vulnerable children in tourist hotspots, often with the complicity of local intermediaries. The lack of stringent regulations and monitoring mechanisms allows this form of exploitation to thrive.

Children working in hotels, restaurants or as street vendors are particularly vulnerable to sexual exploitation of children in travel and tourism. Many are lured with promises of employment or financial support only to be sexually exploited by tourists or local operators. The transient nature of tourism makes it difficult to track and prosecute offenders, leaving victims without justice.

Child marriage, a deeply entrenched practice, is often a guise for trafficking and sexual exploitation. Girls as young as 12 are married off to older men, sometimes in exchange for money or to settle family debts. The marriages expose girls to sexual violence, early pregnancies and lifelong health complications. Despite legal reforms, enforcement remains weak and cultural norms continue to perpetuate this harmful practice. Many families view child marriage as a way to protect their daughters from sexual violence or economic hardship, unaware of the risks it poses to their well-being. The lack of education and awareness about the consequences of child marriage further compounds the problem.

The rise of internet access and digital technology has given predators new avenues to exploit children. Online child sexual exploitation includes the production, distribution, and consumption of child sexual abuse material, as well as grooming and sextortion. Bangladesh has seen a surge in online child sexual exploitation cases, with children being targeted through social media platforms, messaging apps, and online gaming communities.

The lack of digital literacy among children and parents, coupled with inadequate cyber security measures, makes it easy for predators to operate with impunity. The law enforcement agencies often lack the technical expertise and resources to effectively combat this growing threat. Many cases go unreported as victims and their families are unaware of how to seek help or fear social stigma.

Rape and sexual violence against children are among the most heinous forms of child sexual exploitation and abuse. High-profile cases, such as the rape and murder of a minor in Sylhet in 2022, have sparked national outrage and call for justice. However, many cases go unreported or are settled out of court because of societal pressure, corruption, or lack of evidence. The slow pace of the judicial system further compounds the suffering of victims and their families. Many survivors are denied justice as cases drag on for years and perpetrators often escape punishment due to loopholes in the legal system. The lack of support services for survivors, including medical care and counselling, exacerbates their trauma.

The prevalence of child sexual exploitation and abuse is driven by a complex interplay of social, economic and cultural factors. Understanding these root causes is essential for developing effective interventions. Poverty is a significant driver of child sexual exploitation and abuse as families in desperate situations may exploit their children for financial gains or fail to protect them from predators. Lack of access to education and economic opportunities further exacerbates children’s vulnerability. Many children are forced to work in hazardous conditions, making them easy targets for exploitation.

Cultural norms that prioritise family honour over individual well-being often discourage victims from reporting abuse. The stigma associated with sexual violence silences survivors and perpetuates a culture of impunity. Many families fear social ostracism or retaliation, leading them to cover up incidents of abuse rather than seek justice. While Bangladesh has laws to protect children, such as the Children Act 2013 and the Repression on Women and Children (Prevention) Act 2000, enforcement remains weak. Corruption, lack of resources and inadequate training for law enforcement officials hinder effective implementation. Many cases are dismissed due to insufficient evidence or pressure from influential perpetrators.

Many children and parents are unaware of the risks of child sexual exploitation and abuse and how to seek help. Schools and communities often lack comprehensive sex education programs that empower children to recognize and report abuse. The lack of awareness about children’s rights and the legal recourse available to survivors further compounds the problem.

To effectively address child sexual exploitation and abuse, a multi-faceted approach is essential. Strengthening legal frameworks and enforcement is a critical first step. This involves ensuring strict enforcement of existing laws, such as the Children Act 2013, and introducing new legislation to address emerging forms of exploitation, such as online child sexual exploitation. Establishing specialised courts and fast-track systems can help expedite cases of child sexual exploitation and abuse, ensuring timely justice for survivors. Additionally, training law enforcement officials, judges and prosecutors to handle child sexual exploitation and abuse cases sensitively and effectively is crucial to building trust in the justice system and encouraging victims to come forward.

Raising awareness and education is another key pillar in combating child sexual exploitation and abuse. Nationwide campaigns can help to educate communities about the risks and consequences of child sexual exploitation and abuse while comprehensive sex education in schools can empower children with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves. Educating parents and community members about the signs of abuse and how to report it is equally important as it creates a supportive environment for survivors and helps to prevent further exploitation. Alongside awareness, empowering survivors is vital to breaking the cycle of abuse. Providing survivors with access to medical care, psychological counselling and legal support ensures their physical and emotional recovery. Creating safe spaces and shelters offers them a chance to rebuild their lives, while vocational training and economic opportunities enable financial independence and long-term resilience.

Finally, leveraging technology and building partnerships are essential for a sustainable response to child sexual exploitation and abuse. Developing robust cyber security measures can combat online child sexual exploitation and protect children online while technology can also be used to track and monitor cases, ensuring timely intervention. Collaboration with non-governmental organisation, international organisations and the private sector amplifies efforts and resources while engaging community leaders, religious figures, and influencers helps challenge harmful cultural norms and promote child protection. Together, these strategies can create a safer environment for children and ensure their right to a life free from exploitation and abuse.

Child sexual exploitation and abuse is a deeply entrenched issue, but it is not insurmountable. By addressing the root causes, strengthening legal and institutional frameworks, and empowering communities, we can create a future where every child is safe, respected and free of exploitation. The time to act is now.

 

Musharraf Tansen is a development analyst and former country representative of Malala Fund.