On Thursday, 19 December, MEPs condemned the continuing practice of ‘bacha bazi’, which is widespread in several Afghan provinces.
The practice involves turning poor boys between the ages of 10 and 18 into sex slaves for influential members of the elite in rural areas, including politicians and members of the military.
In the joint resolution adopted by the ECR, Greens-EFA, S&D, GUE/NGL, Renew Europe and EPP groups, the European Parliament stated that both central and local authorities must continue with their efforts to eradicate the practice of ‘bacha bazi’ in Afghanistan.
MEPs also called on the Afghan authorities to implement in full national and international law to protect children's rights and ensure that Afghan legislation is applied in full to ensure that perpetrators of sexual abuse and violence against children are held accountable.
MEPs also believe that the government must launch a national campaign to educate society about the ban on ‘bacha bazi’ and the right of minors to be protected from physical and sexual violence of this nature. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)