Reshaping the global agenda on sexual exploitation of children in travel and tourism

Sexual Exploitation of Children in Travel and Tourism (SECTT) is, by its very nature, secretive and hidden. Little is known about what is happening and where, about the victims and perpetrators, and about what actually works... [ view full abstract ]

Sexual Exploitation of Children in Travel and Tourism (SECTT) is, by its very nature, secretive and hidden. Little is known about what is happening and where, about the victims and perpetrators, and about what actually works to stop the abuse. The lack of solid information about this crime, coupled with silence or even tolerance, has kept SECTT far too low on the policy agenda.

In 2016, the first comprehensive global study on SECTT was launched. The objective was to re-affirm or reshape the way that this difficult subject should be seen and approached today. The global study was built on knowledge garnered from nine regional studies, 15 country studies, 44 expert papers and 19 consultations with key stakeholders as governments, academia, the corporate sector and children and young people.

The key outcome of the study is that no region is untouched and no country is ‘immune’. In an increasingly interconnected world, more people are on the move and even the most remote parts of the planet are now within reach, thanks to cheaper travel and the spread of Internet. Through 46 recommendations the study outlines the road ahead.

Europe remains the number one tourist destination, welcoming more than half of the world’s tourists in 2016. Countries in Central and Eastern Europe are emerging as source and destination countries – often lacking laws to protect children that exist elsewhere in the region. Regional institutions have adopted measures to enhance protection against child sexual exploitation, especially trafficking, but few address SECTT, which is sometimes addressed only within broader frameworks on violence or child protection.

Despite 20 years of efforts, SECTT has expanded across the globe and out-paced every attempt to respond at the international and national level. With new knowledge and new tools, now it´s time for action.