Children Act of 2012, Trinidad and Tobago

Parts IV, V, VI, and VIII of the Children Act of Trinidad and Tobago address child protection from sexual abuse, exploitation, and harmful practices. The law prohibits sexual offences against children, including child prostitution, sexual penetration, and child pornography. Causing or encouraging a child to engage in such acts can result in life imprisonment. Possession or creation of child pornography carries a sentence of up to 20 years. The Act also prohibits female genital mutilation (FGM). This includes any cutting or removal of parts of a child’s genitalia. Medical procedures are only allowed when necessary for the child’s physical or mental health, but cultural or ritual reasons are not considered valid. FGM carries a penalty of up to 20 years and a fine of $50,000 upon summary conviction. Encouraging a girl to mutilate herself can lead to up to 15 years in prison. The Children’s Authority, established under the Children’s Authority Act of 2000, is empowered to intervene in cases of child abuse. Definitions of terms like “brothel” are drawn from the Sexual Offences Act.

Topics

• Female genital mutilation or female genital cutting
• Sexual violence and rape
• Trafficking in persons

Geographical location

• Central America & the Caribbean
• Trinidad and Tobago

Keywords

• child abuse
• exploitation
• right to bodily autonomy

Year

• 2012

External URL

• Children Act of 2012, Trinidad and Tobago

Type

• Legislation

Jurisdiction

• Trinidad and Tobago