The Dominican Republic has begun a concerted effort, both
at home and abroad, to reduce foreigners? abuse of Dominican children. List?n
Diario reports that diplomatic bodies in Spain, Italy, Germany and France have
been educated on the problem and ways to combat it. Likewise, the National Hotel
& Restaurant Association (Asonahores) is participating in the campaign to reduce
the number of tourists seeking to sexually exploit Dominican children during
their visits. The united front also includes working with hotel personnel so
that no assistance be given to foreigners seeking information on where to
procure their victims.
Organizations participating in the nationwide effort are the ministries of
labor, education, public health, foreign relations, women and tourism. Likewise,
the initiative will include the participation of Conani, the Attorney General?s
office, Supreme Court of Justice, District Attorney?s office, Migration
Department, Tourism Police, Interamerican Institute of the Child, Proyecto MAIS,
NGO Coalition, Muchachos con Don Bosco, Proyecto Caminante, Institute of the
Family, World Labor Organization and UNICEF.