In order to reduce the risks of sexual violence against children and adolescents, the non-governmental organization Ipas Bolivia began a digital campaign aimed at this sector.
According to the institution, based on data from the Public Prosecutor’s Office as of 2023, it is estimated that at least nine children and adolescents are victims of sexual aggression in Bolivia every day.
Through the hashtag #sinperosenlalengua, the institution seeks to inform and raise awareness on issues of sexual violence and comprehensive sexuality education.
“Comprehensive sexuality education is fundamental for today’s children. It helps prevent violence and early pregnancies. It also addresses issues such as hormonal changes, healthy relationships and consent,” said Cecilia Terrazas, Ipas communications coordinator.
He added that the initiative arose from the idea of sharing this information with the tools and languages used on a daily basis with adolescents and young people.
The #sinperosenlalengua campaign will develop its content based on four axes: comprehensive sexuality education, sexual violence, early pregnancy and legal termination of pregnancy.
According to forecasts, this activity will be carried out starting this month (December) and throughout 2024. It is expected to reach a wide urban and rural audience.
SOCIAL NETWORKS
The messages will reach the population through videos posted on social networks, such as TikTok, Instagram and others.
This content will be distributed by young content creators interested in promoting debate and reflection on these issues.
According to Ipas, with data collected from the Civic Registration Service (Serecí), between 2015 and 2023, 3,652 adolescent marriages were registered. The ages of the couples are between 15 and 17 years old.
Other data of concern to the institution are those reported by various government agencies. The Ministry of Education stated that, in 10 years, it has registered 800 cases of violence against children in schools.
Nadia Cruz, vice-minister of Equal Opportunities, as quoted by Ipas in an institutional bulletin, also pointed out that at least 104 girls and adolescents become pregnant every day in Bolivia.