Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children

Commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) is a specific kind of human trafficking. It is the trafficking of people for the sale or exchange of sexual acts to another where, typically, a third party benefits. These third parties are referred to as traffickers though they can also be referred to as “pimps.” Even in the absence of a third party, the sale or exchange of sexual acts with a minor to another is commercial sexual exploitation. Unfortunately, the commercial sexual exploitation of children is appealing because it is highly profitable. Children and youth are sought after by traffickers because the demand for children and youth is high among those who pay for sex. In addition, traffickers tend to target young girls and boys who may be homeless, living in group homes, have a history of trauma, or are otherwise vulnerable. Previously, when children were identified or found to be commercially sexually exploited they were considered child prostitutes. More recently, this narrative has changed, with the recognition that there is no such thing as a child prostitute. Policies regarding the commercial sexual exploitation of children have also changed to more accurately recognize and treat children and youth as victims in need of support or services. This more accurate reframing of the issue, along with the increase in attention to the issue, has led to a proliferation of efforts in many public service systems, including criminal, juvenile justice, and child welfare systems, to respond to commercial sexual exploitation (CSE) differently—specifically, to focus on identifying and protecting victims of CSE and providing the most appropriate services to victims. Despite these changes and increased focus on the issue, true prevalence rates of CSE are unknown and service systems often struggle with how to best serve children and youth who have experienced CSE.