Sustainable Tourism & Childhood When in Brazil do as the Brazilians do: Report the Sexual Exploitation of Children and Youth. Dial 100.

What is sexual exploitation of children and youth in tourism?

According to United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) tourism industry in Brazil shows very positive numbers in the last decade. Compared to 1997, the number of tourist arrivals in Brazil increased by 72.4%, growing from 2.9 million in 1997 to 5.0 million in 2007.

Statistics of Brazilian Institute of Tourism – EMBRATUR, shows that the Northeast Region receives the largest contingent of tourists arriving from abroad, attracted by the natural beauties, long seashore with tropical climate, diversified and fascinating environment, rich culture and the hospitality of Brazilian people,

The European Union (EU) supplies 62% of the foreign tourists arriving in the Northeast of Brazil. The main origin countries are: Portugal, Italy, Germany, France, Spain, England, Netherlands, Scandinavia and Switzerland.

This growth represents development for the economy of the whole Northeast Region, providing jobs and income to the population. Nevertheless, notwithstanding these positive economic impacts, it can also generate a demand for sexual exploitation of children and adolescents.

During the last 15 years the media has highlighted that this crime happens in many touristic destinations and even in places with no proper tourism infrastructure. It`s worth mentioning that this practice is not to be considered as a type of tourism, therefore, it is not correct to use the term “Sexual Tourism”.

Tourism motivated by sexual exploitation of children and youth can be defined as people travelling with the intention of sexually exploit children and youth. Normally, travelers involved in this practice, travel from developed areas to less-developed regions, searching for anonymity and looking for children available for that purpose.