How to Tackle Online Sexual Exploitation of Children
A new guide aims to help religious communities worldwide harness their strengths to prevent, respond to and end online child sexual exploitation.
Published by ECPAT International and Religions for Peace in partnership with UNICEF, Protecting Children from Online Sexual Exploitation recognises that religious leaders and communities can provide the moral compass that is needed to end this crime.
Information and communications technologies and the Internet are exposing children to new and evolving forms of sexual exploitation, as seen in a staggering expansion of child sexual abuse materials online.
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Practices such as ‘sexting’ (the self-production and sharing of sexual messages or images) also place children at risk of sexual abuse and exploitation.
The new Guide recognises that faith-based organisations and religious leaders are in a unique position to mobilise moral authority on this issue, influence thinking, generate debate and set standards for others to follow.
They are also well-placed to take action when offenders ask for help, and to give families the advice and the tools they need to protect their children.
The Guide sets out the online risks to children and the impact of online child sexual exploitation, as well as the skewed motivations of offenders and intermediaries, including traffickers and pimps.
Outlining the critical role of religious communities in addressing this crime, the guide notes their spiritual, moral and social influence, as well as their obligation to end violence against children.
It provides the perspectives of different religions on child protection as well as the following step-by-step tips to help religious leaders and communities take action, seek justice and protect children.
Create safe and child-friendly places. All places of worship and religious institutions can offer safety, help and support for children and adolescents, including those who are victims of violence, and can help to build safe and child-friendly communities.
Raise awareness. People look to religious leaders for moral guidance and advice, and they can discuss these issues with their communities, using the new Guide to break taboos and start a conversation on how their faith tradition views sexual abuse and exploitation.
Report abuse. Religious leaders can encourage children and community members to report any cases of exploitation and abuse, and if anyone in the community is aware of, or concerned about, dangers to children, they can contact law enforcement or a confidential helpline to speak to a specialist third party.
Advocate for children. Religious leaders and faith communities can help to make the world a safer place for children and adolescents by sharing information on the risks and consequences of sexual violence and by supporting local institutions that protect the youngest citizens.
Work together. Religious communities can join with others to combine their vision, resources and experience to tackle online child sexual exploitation.
Photo courtesy: UNICEF
