CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION IN AMAZON COMMUNITIES: THE EFFECTIVENESS OF BRAZILIAN LEGISLATION AND THE CHALLENGES OF LOCAL CULTURE

Abstract

This article deals with child sexual exploitation in the communities of Amazonas. However, in order to understand it, it is necessary to analyze the historical roots, with abusive practices dating back to the colonial period, when indigenous and African women were sexually exploited within a patriarchal system. In the current context, especially in the Amazon region, sexual exploitation is aggravated by factors such as geographical isolation, extreme poverty, lack of basic infrastructure and the absence of public authorities. The Statute of the Child and Adolescent, although an important legal framework, faces challenges in its application, especially in remote areas such as Amazonas, where the presence of authorities is limited. Social vulnerability, evidenced by the lack of access to education and health, contributes to children's exposure to situations of sexual abuse. In addition, the underreporting of cases of sexual exploitation is a recurring problem, due to fear of reprisals, distrust of the authorities and ignorance of reporting channels. The cultural normalization of sexual exploitation in some communities also makes it difficult to report these abuses. For legislation to be applied more effectively, public policies need to be adapted to the local reality, with awareness-raising and sex education strategies that involve communities. The mobilization of community leaders and the strengthening of social protection networks are fundamental to guaranteeing the full protection of children and adolescents in the Amazon region. Thus, the effectiveness of the legislation depends on collaboration between the government, civil society and non-governmental organizations.