AWARE presents yet  another forum on trafficking - “Sex Slaves: Children Forced into Prostitution” on the 8th of September, 7pm at the SCWO Centre.

4th September 2006

For Immediate Release

Sex Slaves: Children Forced into Prostitution

The Association of Women for Action & Research (AWARE) presents yet  another forum on trafficking - “Sex Slaves: Children Forced into Prostitution” on the 8th of September, 7pm at the SCWO Centre.

The Forum will present findings and recommendations from AWARE’s report, Beyond Borders: Sex with Children – Implementing Extra- Territorial Legislation for Singaporeans.

At the forum the presenters will share their report featuring insights into the legal intricacies in dealing with men or women who have sex with minors beyond our borders. The report also makes clear that we have Hobson’s choice in this matter of trying to curb sex tourism as policies are behind the curve in trying to catch up with this rising trend of boys and girls being caught in the trade.  It is imperative to activate such legislation as a minimum means of protection for children beyond our shores. This forum will also showcase efforts already made by others to raise awareness and most importantly during the Question and Answer we hope to get the public to commit to some action that they are happy to take part in.

Ms Azmeen Moiz and Ms Halijah Mohd, both lawyers who have lead the research at AWARE, will speak about the findings of the report and present their case for Extra-Territorial Legislation for Singaporeans along with Ms Braema Mathi, who initiated this project as AWARE’s then President.

The Forum, which is supported by the Singapore Council of Women’s Organisation (SCWO), also has expert speakers from the NUS Pro Bono Group who helped AWARE with this report and the National Committee for UNIFEM Singapore.

The Forum aims to be a point of reflection for Singaporeans and for us to do our part at different levels, as well as to send the message of zero tolerance towards sex with minors whether on our shores or beyond.

Details of the programme of the forum are in the flyer below.

About AWARE
AWARE's mission is to promote a society that provides optimal opportunities for women and men to realise their highest potential. AWARE believes that gender stereotypes and discrimination benefits neither women nor men, and that gender equity is a necessary component of healthy families and societies. Formed in 1985, AWARE is the leading women's advocacy group in Singapore. AWARE's strengths lie in identifying social issues that adversely affect women and families, and in researching the causes and possible solutions of these issues.

For those who are currently in need, AWARE's direct services help over 2500 women each year. AWARE also has an education arm that provides training on diverse issues such as self-esteem, sexuality, gender stereotypes and assertiveness. AWARE is supported by a large group of committed, passionate volunteers.