Is Prostitution Legal in Marshall Islands?
Prostitution is illegal in the Marshall Islands, a small island country located in the Pacific Ocean. The country is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and unique culture. Despite being a popular tourist destination, the Marshall Islands has strict laws in place to combat the illegal sex trade and protect its citizens from exploitation.
What are the Laws, Penalties, and Law Enforcement Strategies?
The main laws governing prostitution in the Marshall Islands are found in the Criminal Code, which criminalizes the following activities related to prostitution:
- Engaging in, promoting, or facilitating prostitution
- Procuring a person for prostitution
- Operating or managing a brothel
- Transporting a person into or out of the country for the purpose of prostitution
Penalties for these offenses range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the crime. The Marshall Islands government takes a strong stance against prostitution and human trafficking, and law enforcement agencies actively work to enforce these laws.
Additionally, the Marshall Islands has signed and ratified various international conventions and protocols to combat human trafficking and protect the rights of victims. These include the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children, which supplements the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime.
What is Prostitution Called Locally in Marshall Islands?
In the Marshall Islands, prostitution is often referred to as jineterismo or survival sex. These terms highlight the socio-economic factors that can drive individuals, particularly women and children, into the sex trade. Many of those involved in prostitution in the Marshall Islands do so out of necessity and face significant risks to their health and safety.
What is the History of Prostitution in Marshall Islands?
Prostitution has been a persistent issue in the Marshall Islands for many years. During World War II, when the islands were occupied by Japan, there were reports of comfort women being brought to the islands to provide sexual services to Japanese soldiers. Following the war, the Marshall Islands came under the administration of the United States, and prostitution continued to be an issue, particularly around U.S. military installations.
In more recent years, the Marshall Islands has experienced significant social and economic challenges, including high rates of poverty, unemployment, and substance abuse. These factors have contributed to the ongoing issue of prostitution in the country.
What are Some Helpful Links, Government Laws, and Resources on Prostitution Legality in Marshall Islands?
For those interested in learning more about prostitution laws in the Marshall Islands, as well as efforts to combat human trafficking and support victims, the following resources are available:
- Marshall Islands Criminal Code – The official text of the Criminal Code, which outlines the laws governing prostitution and related offenses.
- 2020 Trafficking in Persons Report: Marshall Islands – A report by the U.S. Department of State that provides an overview of human trafficking issues in the Marshall Islands, including information on government efforts to combat trafficking and support victims.
- Global Slavery Index: Marshall Islands – A comprehensive resource that provides data and analysis on the prevalence of modern slavery, including human trafficking and forced labor, in the Marshall Islands.
- Marshall Islands Employment (Amendment) Act 2011 – An amendment to the Employment Act that introduced new provisions related to the prevention of human trafficking and the protection of victims.
By understanding the laws, history, and current issues surrounding prostitution in the Marshall Islands, individuals can help support efforts to combat this illegal activity and protect vulnerable populations from exploitation.