Lack of methods that prove to be effective in preventing sexual exploitation
In a comprehensive scoping review the Swedish Gender Equality Agency has focused on evaluated methods and approaches to prevent sexual exploitation. The results show that there are many examples of methods directed towards different target groups, such as school-based programmes, different kinds of supportive interventions, and tools directed towards professionals or parents. However, the field of work is uneven, and in need of continuous development.
"Many of the interventions have only been evaluated on one occasion, in different ways and of varying quality, that make them difficult to compare. Many of the interventions focuses on the exploitation and increasing detection of cases, instead on preventing violence," says Sofie Kindahl," senior adviser at the Swedish Gender Equality Agency.
Several interventions focus on individual models of explanation, rather than a perspective of power. Few methods are trying to change social norms around gender and sexuality. Also, few methods are taking into account grooming and digital arenas.
Refugees face increased risk of exploitation
The Swedish Gender Equality Agency has previously highlighted the risk that women and children fleeing the war in Ukraine can be exploited in trafficking in Sweden.
"Several authorities and civil society organisations are pointing out that there is a risk that exploitation of this group increases even more, since the refugees are forced to live with an extremely low renumeration for a longer period," says Sofie Kindahl.
Lack of evaluated methods internationally
Although purchasing sexual acts is a crime that leads to prison in Sweden, a large group of men are still willing to exploit this vulnerable group.
"The internet searches on pornography and escort services of women from Ukraine has escalated since the invasion begun last spring," says Sofie Kindahl.
Despite this, according to the results of the scoping review, there is a complete lack of evaluated methods on an international level, to prevent the demand of exploiting persons exposed to prostitution.
"This is why it's extremely important to continue to develop and spread interventions to combat the demand, and that we start evaluating what has been done.
According to Sofie Kindahl, there are several good examples within the scooping review:
"There are many interesting methods. Some of the identified methods are like the ones being used in Sweden, but we are in general bad at evaluating our work."
Report: Preventing Sexual Exploitation (2022), pdf
Publication date: 17 March 2023
Last updated: 11 June 2024