The Freedom Fund and Instituto Promundo issue warning about those truly responsible for child sexual exploitation in Recife

The Freedom Fund and Instituto Promundo issue warning about those truly responsible for child sexual exploitation in Recife

Commercial sexual exploitation of children and adolescents (CSEC) remains a critical child rights issue in Brazil. However, there is relatively limited information on the motivations and behaviors of adults involved in CSEC perpetration. This study, conducted by Instituto Promundo and Freedom Fund, aims to improve understanding of CSEC perpetration in the Greater Recife Region of Brazil, a location where an estimated one in six young women experienced CSEC as a minor (Freedom Fund, 2024). As speaking directly to known CSEC perpetrators proved immensely challenging, the study consulted people who frequent areas where CSEC is reportedly prevalent, using surveys and focus group discussions to gather comprehensive insights into the social norms associated with CSEC perpetration and accounts of CSEC offenders from those who interact with them. CSEC experts were also consulted through key informant interviews.

Most participants described perpetration of CSEC as deviant behavior, especially when it involves children under 14 years of age. However, based on gendered understandings of adolescence as a period of sexual readiness, social norms that tolerate sex between adults and children were evident, especially when it involves adolescent boys and girls aged 14 and over. Although perpetrators of CSEC were understood to have diverse characteristics, the perceived “typical” profile was that of a middle-aged or older local man with no prior connection to the child and who had a relative income advantage over the child.

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