Abstract

Background: Child sexual exploitation (CSE) poses significant challenges to public policy and child protection systems. Paradoxically, the actions of these systems can sometimes exacerbate the problem and perpetuate violence. Participants and methods: This qualitative study examined the intervention trajectories of twelve youths who were victims of CSE and received assistance from National Specialised Protection Services. These intervention trajectories were reconstructed by reviewing secondary sources, including case files, and were supplemented by 32 interviews with professionals involved in the cases. Findings: The research yielded findings regarding the forms of exploitation experienced by children, as well as the perpetrators. Furthermore, critical issues relating to responses to other damages prior to the occurrence of CSE were identified. In addition, we found failures related to identification, referral and attention during safeguarding trajectories. Discussion: These dynamics are not only ineffective but also increase children's vulnerability to further sexual exploitation. Through critical analysis, the focus of the discussion shifts from individual professional neglect to systemic neglect. It reviews critical issues, actions and practices that are harmful to children and which persist within operational structures where these practices are applicable and valid. Conclusions: The article emphasises the urgent need to examine protective interventions holistically in order to evaluate services and identify how they may increase vulnerability to CSE.