The Global Boys Initiative (ECPAT International)
This project series delves into the complex realities faced by street-involved children across five countries: Thailand, Sri Lanka, South Korea, Pakistan, and Hungary. Through a combination of frontline worker surveys, in-depth conversations with survivors, and legal analyses, these studies shed light on the often-overlooked sexual exploitation of boys and youth with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions (SOGIE). By examining the unique vulnerabilities, gaps in support services, and legal challenges in each context, this series aims to inspire systemic changes that better protect and empower these marginalized children.
The studies in this series reveal a common thread: the pervasive impact of harmful gender norms and societal attitudes on the vulnerability and help-seeking behaviors of street-involved boys and SOGIE youth. Across all five countries, traditional notions of masculinity and stigma surrounding same-sex relations create a "culture of silence" that hinders disclosure, limits access to support, and perpetuates the invisibility of these children's experiences. The series highlights the urgent need for comprehensive, gender-sensitive interventions that challenge these norms, improve service accessibility and quality, reform legal frameworks, and amplify the voices of survivors in shaping solutions.
Thailand: Illuminating the Shadows - Sexual Exploitation of Boys and SOGIE Youth
This study exposes the gaps between the expressed needs of sexually exploited boys and SOGIE youth and the services available to them in Thailand. Frontline workers struggle to identify and support these groups effectively, while survivors face numerous push and pull factors, from family rejection to economic necessity. The report emphasizes the importance of sustainable livelihoods, identity affirmation, and community acceptance in preventing exploitation and promoting recovery.
Sri Lanka: Breaking the Silence - Addressing the Sexual Exploitation of Boys
In Sri Lanka, deeply entrenched beliefs about male invulnerability and taboos around discussing sexuality create formidable barriers for sexually exploited boys seeking help. This study reveals the inadequacies of existing laws and support services in responding to the unique needs of male survivors, calling for attitudinal shifts, capacity building, child-friendly justice procedures, and specialized care.
South Korea: Unspoken Realities - Confronting the Sexual Exploitation of Boys
This report uncovers the hidden experiences of sexually exploited boys in South Korea, where patriarchal gender norms and limited specialized services impede disclosure and access to support. Through powerful survivor narratives, the study underscores the importance of non-judgmental, gender-sensitive care, public education to combat stigma, and amplifying boys' voices in shaping services.
Pakistan: Beyond the Stereotypes - Sexual Exploitation of Boys in a Gendered Landscape
In Pakistan, the sexual exploitation of boys remains an underexplored issue, compounded by practices like bacha bazi and inconsistent legal protections. This study highlights the need for workforce capacity building, parenting programs that challenge gender norms, improved access to child protection services, and legislative reforms that criminalize all forms of child sexual exploitation in a gender-neutral manner.
Hungary: Invisible Victims - The Sexual Exploitation of Boys in Hungary
This report delves into the ways gender norms shape vulnerability, help-seeking, and service barriers for sexually exploited boys in Hungary. Through survivor conversations and frontline worker insights, it identifies critical gaps in training, communication, and legal frameworks. The study emphasizes the importance of centering survivor voices, developing gender-sensitive services, and engaging all levels of society in prevention and response.