Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) is a significant social issue that has long-lasting psychological, emotional, and physical consequences for survivors. Despite increased awareness and legal measures, CSA remains a pervasive problem worldwide, including in Canada.
Prevalence and Impact:
Studies indicate that CSA affects a substantial number of children, with many cases going unreported due to fear, shame, or manipulation by perpetrators. Survivors often experience trauma-related conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and difficulties in forming healthy relationships. Early intervention and support are crucial in helping survivors recover and rebuild their lives. According to recent data, “The New Brunswick rates of sexual assault in children aged 12 to 17 have fluctuated since 2020, but in 2023 it was one of the highest in Canada — at 520 per 100,000. That’s compared to the national rate of about 383 per 100,000” (Awde, 2025). This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for continued efforts to prevent CSA and support survivors effectively.
The largest proportion of persons accused of online child sexual exploitation and abuse (regardless of whether a victim was identified) was in Quebec (39%), followed by Ontario (32%) (Ibrahim, 2022). This data sheds light on regional trends within Canada, underscoring the need for targeted prevention and intervention efforts in these areas.
Legal Protections in Canada
Canada has implemented various legal frameworks to protect children from sexual abuse. The Criminal Code of Canada outlines strict penalties for offenses related to child exploitation, grooming, and assault. Additionally, mandatory reporting laws require professionals such as teachers and healthcare workers to report suspected abuse.
Erin’s Law in Ontario
A significant recent development in Ontario is the passing of Erin’s Law (Child Sexual Abuse Prevention and Reporting), 2024, which amends the Education Act to ensure CSA prevention education in schools. The law mandates:
- Annual engagement of students in age-appropriate discussions on CSA prevention and reporting.
- Provision of information to parents and guardians on CSA prevention, reporting, and available resources.
- Annual training for teachers and school staff on CSA prevention, reporting, and support services for survivors.
The law also grants the Minister authority to regulate how CSA education is delivered and how information is provided to students, parents, and staff. Erin’s Law is set to take effect on September 1, 2024, marking a crucial step in strengthening CSA prevention efforts in Ontario schools (Jess, n.d.).
Challenges and Advocacy
Despite these protections, challenges remain in effectively preventing CSA. Many survivors face barriers in seeking justice due to stigma, fear of not being believed, or lengthy legal processes. Advocacy groups continue to push for stronger laws, better support services, and increased public education to address CSA more effectively. Organizations working in this field emphasize the importance of creating safe environments where children feel empowered to speak out against abuse.
Addressing CSA requires a multi-faceted approach involving legal measures, education, and survivor-centered support systems. The implementation of Erin’s Law is a step in the right direction, but continued advocacy is essential to ensure comprehensive protections for children across Canada. By raising awareness and advocating for stronger protections, society can work towards reducing the prevalence of CSA and ensuring that survivors receive the justice and care they deserve.