International Dimensions of Sexual Crimes Against Children Drs. The project will collect baseline data concerning the involvement of children in cross-border prostitution, pornography and other forms of commercial sexual exploitation. The purpose of the 18-month study is to produce more reliable statistical estimates of the problem in the United States, Mexico and Canada and to better understand the nature, extent and underlying causes of this form of exploitation.
Officials suspect that commercial sexual exploitation of children is escalating for several reasons.
Researchers in each city will organize and analyze focus group discussions between local human service, law enforcement, criminal justice, child advocacy, and other child-focused organizations in each city. The information derived from these analyses will culminate in a series of national and international forums where recommendations for action will be formulated.