Many people do not even consider child prostitution to be a form of child abuse, but many of these kids have been victims long before they turn to the world of prostitution which only victimizes them further. Many youths who are forced to sell themselves are runaways trying to make enough money to survive. It is a viscous cycle that is difficult to break. With the speed that AIDS is spreading across the world, it is becoming more urgent to prevent all people, but especially young people from becoming involved with prostitution. It was covered by the solicitation offence.
Solicitation is the communication in a public place for the purpose of prostitution.
The solicitation offence is a means to prevent or cut down on prostitution. For a very long time, prostitution laws have been biased towards the prostitute and quite favourable to the customers. The offence carries with it a maximum term of 5 years. Payment can be in the form of money, drugs, food, shelter, clothes, etc. It is an offence in itself to have sexual relations with a person under 14 years of age.