Is Prostitution Legal in Kiribati?
Prostitution in Kiribati is illegal. The country, located in the central Pacific Ocean, has strict laws and penalties against those involved in the sex trade. Both the buying and selling of sexual services are considered criminal offenses in Kiribati.
What are the Laws, Penalties, and Law Enforcement Practices Regarding Prostitution in Kiribati?
There are several laws in place to curb prostitution and related activities in Kiribati. Some of the key legal provisions include:
- Penal Code 1977: Under Section 153 of the Penal Code, it is an offense to live on the earnings of prostitution or to aid, abet, or compel any person to engage in prostitution.
- Sexual Offenses Act 2012: This act criminalizes the buying and selling of sexual services, making both the client and the sex worker liable to punishment.
Penalties for engaging in prostitution-related activities can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense. Law enforcement practices in Kiribati include raids on suspected brothels and arrests of individuals involved in the sex trade. However, due to limited resources, law enforcement agencies often struggle to effectively combat prostitution in the country.
How is Prostitution Referred to Locally in Kiribati?
In Kiribati, prostitution is commonly referred to as karewe, which translates to selling in the local language. This term is used to describe the exchange of sexual services for money or other forms of compensation.
What is the History of Prostitution in Kiribati?
Prostitution in Kiribati has been an issue of concern for many years. During the colonial era, the practice was largely confined to foreign sailors and traders visiting the islands. However, with the country’s increasing urbanization and modernization, prostitution has become more widespread and visible, particularly in urban areas such as South Tarawa.
Over the years, the government of Kiribati has implemented various measures to address the issue of prostitution, including the enactment of the Sexual Offenses Act in 2012. Despite these efforts, prostitution continues to be a challenge in the country, fueled by factors such as poverty, unemployment, and a lack of economic opportunities.
Where Can You Find Helpful Links, Government Laws, and Resources on Prostitution in Kiribati?
For more information on prostitution laws and related issues in Kiribati, you can consult the following resources:
- Kiribati Penal Code 1977 – This document contains the legal provisions related to prostitution and other offenses under the country’s penal code.
- Kiribati Sexual Offenses Act 2012 – This act outlines the legal framework for addressing various forms of sexual offenses, including prostitution.
- 2020 Trafficking in Persons Report: Kiribati – This report by the U.S. Department of State provides an overview of the human trafficking situation in Kiribati, including information on prostitution and related issues.
- United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Human Trafficking Case Digest – This resource provides case studies and analysis of human trafficking and related offenses, including prostitution, from various countries, including Kiribati.