The digital age presents unprecedented opportunities for children in Asia, connecting them to information, education, and social interaction. However, this increased online engagement also exposes them to significant risks, including stalking, grooming, extortion, and access to sexual abuse material. Child rights organization Terre des Hommes Netherlands is launching a vital campaign, “Also Online,” to equip parents across Asia with the knowledge and tools to better protect their children in this complex digital landscape.
The issue of online child sexual exploitation is of particularly grave concern in Asia. For instance, in the Philippines, 20 percent of children were reported to be victims, while in Nepal 1 in 5 girls and 1 in 10 boys, and in Cambodia 1 in 10 children reported having experienced online sexual abuse and exploitation. Globally, it is estimated that more than 300 million children suffer online exploitation each year. Rising internet reach and increased online use by children underscore the need for immediate action.
Research conducted by Terre des Hommes Netherlands emphasizes that parents are often overwhelmed by digital technology and lack the knowledge and tools to effectively protect their children. This increases children’s exposure and vulnerability to online abuse. Conducted among 338 total respondents through focus group discussions and interviews in the Philippines, Cambodia and Nepal, the research recommends the need to bridge the intergenerational digital divide and facilitate open communication between parents and children.
The organization’s “Also Online” campaign aims to do just that. It will share tips and tools on how parents can talk to their children in a way that helps them connect the offline and online worlds, reducing their struggle in reaching out to their children. Simple conversation starters such as “How was your day? Also Online,” “Do not talk to strangers. Also Online” will be shared across the countries in which Terre des Hommes Netherlands operates, namely Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Nepal, the Philippines and Thailand, in local languages and English together with a practical guide and insights from parents across the region.
Source: Terre des Hommes Netherlands
Terre des Hommes Netherlands: Empowering Children for Decades
Terre des Hommes Netherlands is a child rights organization dedicated to combating the sexual exploitation of children of children, and the worst forms of child labor while ensuring humanitarian assistance in conflicts and natural disasters. With projects across Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Europe, the organization works towards bringing about systemic change to tackle the root causes of child exploitation.
Among the organization’s activities, Terre des Hommes Netherlands combats online child sexual exploitation through awareness raising, advocacy, capacity building and accountable partnerships. It runs programs that empower children and caregivers to protect themselves online, teaching them about online safety, privacy, and responsible internet use. Terre des Hommes Netherlands also provides support and rehabilitation services to children who have been victims of online sexual exploitation, enabling them to heal and rebuild their lives. Meanwhile, the organization advocates for stronger legal frameworks and policies to effectively safeguard children on the internet, working with governments, law enforcement agencies, the private sector and civil society organizations to address the root causes of online child sexual exploitation.
Source: Terre des Hommes Netherlands
The “Also Online” campaign is the latest initiative by Terre des Hommes Netherlands to address the evolving threats to children’s safety and well-being in the digital age. This campaign serves as a critical reminder that protecting children in the 21st century requires a holistic approach that bridges the gap between the online and offline worlds. By empowering parents with the knowledge and tools to engage in open communication with their children, the “Also Online” campaign aims to create a safer online environment for children across Asia.
This is a sponsored article. For more information about this campaign contact Mahima Sashank, Regional Communications Advisor, Asia.