Uruguay against child sexual exploitation

During the month of May, Claves filmed a short film for the prevention of child sexual exploitation, with support from the Swiss Embassy in Uruguay. The film will be used in workshops around the country to raise awareness of the issue.

The fictional film tells the story of Romina, a 16 year old high school student, who is going through a tough situation with her family. She begins a relationship with Javier, who is more than twice her age. The relationship provides an escape from her family situation, however it also represents a dangerous power imbalance in terms of age, resources and opportunities. Javier takes advantage of this power imbalance and seduces Romina with gifts, such as new clothes, outings and jewelry. He also buys off her family, by giving them a television set and paying off debt the family has accumulated with the landlord.

Javier sets a careful trap, covered over by the guise of a romantic relationship, in order to lure Romina into leaving her home in Montevideo and traveling with him to work in the high season on the coast. Javier's true intentions are made clear to the public-- he is trying to lure her into a network of sexual exploitation. The short film closes with Romina's doubts of whether or not to accept Javier's offer.

At the same time, several "resource" figures are visualized- adults and peers that can be of help to Romina as she goes through this difficult situation.

The film seeks to raise awareness among teenagers, as they or their peers may face similar situations. Through the workshop process, they will be able to dialogue and process the issues presented in the short film.

The film premiere will take place in July with the presence of local authorities, civil society and the Swiss Ambassador to Uruguay.