Legislators in Taiwan Call for Stronger Punishments for Sexual Crimes Against Children
In response to the alarming increase in cases of sexual violence against children, a group of legislators in Taiwan, including Qiu Zhiwei, Zhang Yalin, Zhong Jiabin, Chen Suyue, and Wu Peiyi, have come together to demand stricter punishments for offenders.
During a press conference held on April 12, the legislators put forward three key demands to address the issue. Firstly, they called for the judiciary to consider the crime pattern and impose severe penalties on those who commit sex offenses against children. Secondly, they emphasized the need to strengthen penalties to deter future crimes and prevent offenders from re-offending. Lastly, they urged for compulsory treatment for individuals who violate the “Child and Juvenile Sexual Exploitation Prevention Ordinance” in order to achieve the purpose of correction.
Qiu Zhiwei, one of the legislators involved, highlighted the case of Huang Zijiao, a known spokesperson for vulnerable children who continued to download videos depicting sexual violence against children even after the law was revised. The group called on the High Prosecutor’s Office to consider the severity of such crimes and the impact on society as a whole.
The legislators also proposed amendments to the existing laws to ensure there are sufficient deterrence and sanctions in place. They stressed the importance of education and rehabilitation for criminal offenders to prevent future crimes and provide necessary medical or psychological treatment based on individual cases.
Zhang Yalin criticized the prosecutor’s reasons for delaying prosecution in certain cases, stating that the reasons put forward were illogical and failed to address the seriousness of the crimes committed. Zhong Jiabin suggested adding the criminal pattern into organized crime and providing prosecutors with technological investigation methods to enhance asset searches.
Chen Suyue emphasized the need for stricter measures against sexual crimes, especially those involving minors, due to the high probability of re-offending among sex offenders. Wu Peiyi pointed out the challenges of eradicating digital sexual violence once it is spread on the internet, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive approach to tackling such crimes.
Ji Zhiguang from the Ministry of Justice assured that the case is being deliberated within the scope of authority and a judicial judgment will be made soon. Pan Yingmei from the Ministry of Health and Welfare stated that discussions on the prevention of sexual exploitation of children and juveniles will be held in the future.
The group of legislators, along with various government agencies, are working together to address the growing issue of sexual violence against children and implement stronger measures to protect vulnerable individuals in society.