Ending Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse: Lessons Learned and promising practices in low and middle-income countries

Why we like this piece

There is an urgent need to act against online child sexual abuse and violence. It has been growing exponentially with technological advances in recent years, and the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the threat further. This is particularly true for low and middle-income countries which may lack the infrastructure and systems to combat online abuse.

This report takes stock of UNICEF’s work to address online child sexual exploitation and abuse in low and middle-income countries. Based on an analysis of survey responses from 29 country offices, the report assesses the current levels of implementation of the WeProtect Model National Response, highlighting procedures, promising practices, and challenges.

This report provides case studies of what can and has worked to combat online CSEA and also highlights the major gaps that need to be addressed to make sure that children in low and middle-income countries are safe online. It can act as a guide and tool for policymakers and practitioners to inform policy and practice in this field.