Definition

Sexual Exploitation Definition

Sexual exploitation encompasses acts of sexual abuse and violence where one person or a group exploits another individual through sexual methods to acquire power, control, financial gain, or other material benefits. This includes engaging in transactional sex (such as trading sex for money or goods), perpetrating sexual harassment, imposing forced marriages, enforcing sexual slavery, and engaging in various forms of coercion and exploitation. It originates from gender inequality and frequently targets vulnerable populations, including children, migrants, and marginalized individuals. The consequences of sexual exploitation are far-reaching, causing physical, psychological, and economic harm, as well as social stigma and isolation.