Ricky Martin Asks for UN’s Help to Weed Out Sex Tourism

Latin pop star Ricky Martin called on UN diplomats to prod an initiative proposed by the U.S. government to fight sexual tourism involving children.

“This is slavery in the 21st century and we’re still dealing with that,” said the Puerto Rican crooner in a press conference after a luncheon that gathered several prominent Latin American diplomats.

Sexual tourism against children involves adults who travel abroad with the sole purpose of abusing minors. This particular crime has been stirred up by poverty and corruption, as well as by the spread of online travel agencies and the easing of travel restrictions everywhere.

Mr. Martin, 32, explained this is a crime syndicate that churns out some $7 billion in profits every year.

The San Juan-born singer leads a foundation that finances projects aimed at curbing the traffic and abuse of children.