Online Child Sexual Exploitation in Ethiopia Socio-Legal and Institutional Opportunities and Challenges
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Date
2023-07
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Addis Ababa University,
Abstract
Online child sexual abuse and exploitation, is a new challenge that is affecting children around the world significantly. It is a transnational crime so every child around the world could become the victims including children in Ethiopia. This violence affects children’s social life and productivity not to mention its long lasting impact on their mental health. Online child sexual abuse and exploitation is a serious issue that requires a multifaceted approach which includes legislative, cooperation among institution and social awareness. The study identify the opportunities and challenges for addressing the for addressing online child sexual exploitation and abuse at a legal, institutional, and societal level. In Ethiopia the criminal code and the computer crime proclamation are the major legislations that are used to address online child sexual exploitation. Even though this documents try to address the issue they are not sufficient they lack clarity, do not address all types of online child sexual abuse and exploitation and the sentences for the crime are inadequate. so the study specifically highlights the need to amend the Computer Crime Proclamation since it fails to address this grave problem Further, the study recommends the need for collaboration among institutions and allocation funds for police officer and other child rights and protection professionals to receive appropriate education and fulfill the proper equipment for the investigation of the crime. Lastly, the research shades light on the biggest problem that exists in the society that is lack of awareness it recommends the need for empowering communities through education and awareness campaigns since this can contribute to a safer online environment for children.