As the West pours billions of dollars into the fight against the Taliban in southern Afghanistan, an ancient tradition (banned when the Taliban were in power) has re-emerged across the rest of the country. Hundreds of young boys living in extreme poverty are lured off the streets on the promise of a life away from destitution, unaware their real fate is to be used for entertainment and sex. They are the ‘Bacha Bereesh’, literally ‘beardless boys’, chosen for their height, size and beauty to sing and dance before an audience prior to being traded among the warlords and powerful men of Afghanistan.

Bought and sold by their rich masters, most will suffer grotesquely: exhibited like a new horse or camel, beaten and raped. All efforts by the authorities to eradicate the practice have failed largely because the authorities themselves are involved. Having gained remarkable access inside a sexual exploitation ring, award-winning Afghan journalist Najibullah Quraishi investigates this illegal practice, the consequences of which are shrouded by a focus on the war. The film exposes the lack of support from those in authority and explores possible responses to the plight of children in this conflict zone.

Winner, Amnesty International UK Media Award - TV Documentary

Nominee, BAFTA Television Award - Single Documentary

Nominee, Grierson Award