Turismo e exploração sexual infanto-juvenil: uma análise sobre essa relação no Município de Salvaterra/PA

Abstract

The tourism sector has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economic activities globally. Apart from being a significant earner of foreign exchange for economies, it involves millions of people and plays a crucial role in the development and social inclusion of countries. However, it is essential to understand the impact of the sector's actions on various groups, including children and adolescents. The sexual exploitation of minors is considered a crime, with Brazilian legislation punishing not only direct perpetrators but also those who facilitate or act as intermediaries in such acts. Therefore, it is unacceptable for the resources and infrastructure of tourism to be used by individuals involved in the sexual exploitation of children and adolescents. Industry professionals must assume the role of protectors, especially in relation to the victims. This study aims to analyze the relationship between tourism and the sexual exploitation of children and adolescents in the municipality of Salvaterra, located on Marajó Island, Pará. Salvaterra is an important gateway to the Marajó Archipelago and has a significant tourist flow to the state of Pará. To achieve this goal, specific strategies were adopted, including a literature review on the phenomenon of sexual violence against children and adolescents, identification of laws combating the sexual exploitation of children and adolescents at the national, state, and municipal levels, interviews with representatives of public agencies, private companies in the tourism sector, members of the local community, along with an analysis to verify if there is a relationship between tourism and the sexual exploitation of children and adolescents in Salvaterra. The research employed methodologies such as bibliographic, documentary, qualitative, descriptive, and field research, along with photographic records and interview recordings, allowing for a comprehensive approach to the topic. It is concluded that although the sexual exploitation of children and adolescents is not widespread in Salvaterra, there are indications of tourism-related situations involving this practice. This is despite the continued efforts of civil society and the federal, state, and municipal governments. The research points to the need for more effective actions, particularly in the Marajó region, where in recent years, policies and programs to combat sexual exploitation and to train for the development of tourist activities have been insufficient, with emphasis on the municipality of Salvaterra.