Sharjah:The Khalid Bin Sultan Al Qasimi Humanitarian Foundation (KSQF), in collaboration with ECPAT International, has introduced the first Arabic edition of the Terminology Guidelines for the Protection of Children from Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse. This landmark publication was unveiled at the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF).
According to Wam, this 185-page guide offers crucial guidance on language use, aiming to refine how child sexual exploitation and abuse are described. It focuses on minimizing stigma and protecting children from language that might inadvertently suggest their culpability in the abuse they've suffered. The publication is now available for download on the KSQF website and is structured into 17 thematic sections covering various forms of exploitation and abuse.
One of the notable features of the guidelines is a three-color classification system, which aids professionals in selecting appropriate terminology. Terms marked in green are generally accepted, orange indicates those needing cautious use, and red signifies terms that should be avoided. An annex provides specific alternatives to problematic expressions, such as replacing "child prostitution" with "exploitation of children in/for prostitution."
The guide is particularly pertinent to professionals in journalism, legal practice, public policy, and child protection. It emphasizes the impact language can have on understanding and responding to cases of exploitation and abuse. Additionally, it addresses technology-facilitated abuses, including those involving artificial intelligence and online sexual extortion.
Developed over nine months with input from over 20 experts, the Arabic edition goes beyond mere translation. It incorporates regional legal and cultural considerations, offering guidance on terms like "hatk al-'ird" and contextualizing violence committed under the guise of honor. This initiative aligns with KSQF's mission under Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi to enhance child protection through international collaborations.
Lujan Mourad, Director of KSQF, highlighted the importance of clear terminology in understanding and addressing child exploitation and abuse. She emphasized the intent for the guidelines to serve as a practical resource for professionals across various fields. Guillaume Landry, Executive Director of ECPAT International, reiterated the significance of word choice in shaping perceptions and responses to child abuse cases.
To promote the guide's practical application, KSQF and ECPAT International organized a session at SIBF, engaging stakeholders in discussions on integrating the guidelines into policies and professional practices. Attendees considered steps for adopting the terminology in their institutions over the next six months, aiming to improve communication and responses to child abuse cases. The guide is being showcased at the SIBF, with efforts to encourage its adoption across relevant sectors.