As Özkök Law Firm, we would like to emphasize once again our sensitivity to the protection of children and the defense of their rights. Sexual crimes and violent crimes committed against our children, who constitute the most sensitive segment of our society, cause deep wounds both individually and socially. In this article, we will examine in detail the legal dimensions, penal consequences and protection methods of such crimes committed against children.
Sexual Crimes Committed Against Children
Sexual crimes committed against children are all kinds of actions and negligence against the sexual immunity of the child. These crimes can negatively affect the physical, psychological and social development of the child and leave deep scars in his/her future life. There are various regulations regarding these crimes in the Turkish Penal Code.
• Sexual abuse: Acting with a sexual content towards a child or encouraging the child to act with a sexual content.
• Sexual harassment: Acting with a sexual content verbally or physically towards a child.
• Using a child for sexual purposes: Subjecting the child to pornographic materials or forcing him/her into prostitution.
Crimes of Violence Against Children
Crimes of violence against children are any act that harms the physical, psychological or emotional integrity of a child. These crimes damage the child’s sense of security and may negatively affect future relationships.
• Physical violence: Physical harm to a child by beating, kicking or other means.
• Psychological violence: Psychological harm to a child, such as humiliation, belittling or threats.
• ** neglect:** Failure to meet the child’s basic needs or to protect the child.
Legal Approaches and Penalties
The Turkish Penal Code provides for severe penalties for sexual crimes and violent crimes committed against children. The purpose of these penalties is to deter criminals and protect the rights of children. The type and amount of penalties may vary depending on the nature of the crime, the identity of the perpetrator and the age of the child.
• Imprisonment: The general penalty for sexual crimes and violent crimes committed against children is imprisonment.
• Special security measures: Special security measures such as treatment or supervision of the perpetrator may be applied.
• Deprivation of public rights: The perpetrator is deprived of certain public rights.
Measures to be Taken to Protect Children
We must be sensitive as families, teachers, neighbors and the entire society to protect children from sexual and violent crimes.
• Education: Children should be given sexual education and taught how to protect themselves.
• Communication: Open and trustworthy communication should be established with children, and it should be open to listening to the problems they experience.
• Intervention in case of suspicion: When it is suspected that a child is a victim of sexual abuse or violence, the authorities should be notified.
