Bill Delahunt: “Mr. Speaker, as others have said, including the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) and the gentleman from New Jersey…”

“Mr. Speaker, as others have said, including the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) and the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith), this bill represents yet another step forward in the comprehensive effort to address the international human tragedy of sexual exploitation of women and children. It would mandate that humanitarian relief agencies adopt a code of conduct that would promote protection for potential victims. As the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) indicated, U.S. funding would only be available if those agencies had expressly articulated and adopted such a policy. The bill enumerates six core principles that incorporate the findings of a task force created by the United Nations in 2002. To mention a few, and I will be repetitive, but I think it is important to repeat because these provisions are of consequence. Sexual activity with a child under 18 is prohibited regardless of local law. The exchange of sexual favors for any reason is defined as abusive and exploitative behavior. It is humiliating and degrading, and as such, it is prohibited.”