Child Prostitution

Abstract

The existence of child prostitution is an alarming indictment of Irish society. Childhood should be a precious time when innocence is protected. We have a moral and societal responsibility to ensure children are protected from those who may harm them. This can be done through awareness raising and the provision of comprehensive legislation and social services for all children, particularly those most at risk of prostitution. Language underpins our attitudes towards prostitution. Referring to a child as a prostitute and men as pimps and punters implies that children are making informed choices and decisions about their situation. Barnardos knows that this is not the case. Prostitution is an offence as it is a form of child abuse and exploitation; it involves the exploitation of a child by an adult who is controlling, coercing, assaulting and raping the child.