Child Prostitution: A Denial of Human Rights

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Child Prostitution: A Denial of Human Rights

Child Prostitution

 "... the use of a child in sexual activities for remuneration or any other form of consideration." (Source: Optional Child Protocol to the Concention on the Rights of the Child)

The sexual exploitation of children by means of prostitution is an old and worldwide problem.  In many countries, prostitution is part of their history and culture, existing for hundreds of years.  However, child prostitution is a direct violation of a child’s Human Rights.  Millions of children are forced into prostitution because of many different reasons, one being poverty and the need to survive. However, it is important to note that poverty alone does not cause millions to suffer throughout their life.   Gender discrimination also plays a large role in causing such a problem, while poverty blatantly underscores the racial and sexual discrimination going on in prostitution around the world (4).  Discrimination, along with a general lack of education and job opportunities, forces innocent children to give up their most valuable assets: their childhood, their health and their future.