Políticas públicas de combate à exploração sexual de crianças e adolescentes: um diálogo entre as experiências na ilha de Bolama Bijagós (Guiné-Bissau) e no Ceará (Brasil)

Abstract

This study analyzes public policies to combat the sexual exploitation of children and adolescents, drawing a comparison between experiences on Bolama Bijagós Island (Guinea- Bissau) and in Ceará (Brazil). The analysis focuses on conceptual foundations and the internal coherence of these policies, given that, in contemporary society, sexual exploitation is rooted in various factors, including gender inequality, patriarchy, and economic vulnerability. The overall objective of the research is to conduct a comparative analysis of public policies addressing the sexual exploitation of children and adolescents in Ceará, Brazil, and Bolama Bijagós Island, Guinea-Bissau. The specific objectives are: (i) to analyze the normative frameworks guiding public policies to combat sexual exploitation of children and adolescents on Bolama Bijagós Island (Guinea-Bissau); (ii) to analyze the normative frameworks guiding similar policies in Ceará (Brazil); and (iii) to compare the structural and conceptual foundations of public policies in both regions in terms of coherence and effectiveness. The methodology employed in this research is qualitative, utilizing techniques such as bibliographic review and document analysis. According to Denzin and Lincoln (2005), qualitative research is an activity rooted in situational contexts, shaped by the observer's perspective in relation to the object and its environment. This approach enabled the conclusion that evaluating public policies on the sexual exploitation of children and adolescents is essential for safeguarding the dignity of women and children and fostering a just society. The findings reveal that in Guinea-Bissau, sexual exploitation is exacerbated by weak state intervention, which allows offenders to operate without oversight, as well as cultural factors such as patriarchal practices and forced marriages that heighten girls’ vulnerabilities. Beyond poverty, these cultural and social issues perpetuate human rights violations. Recently, initiatives like the children’s parliament have emerged to give children a voice, raising awareness of their rights and contributing to the fight against these practices. In Ceará, public efforts include the establishment and maintenance of specific policies and federal legislation, along with dedicated support structures, to combat the sexual exploitation of children and adolescents.