WeProtect Global Alliance advocates for a comprehensive Model National Response to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse online. This framework equips countries with the tools and strategies necessary to implement effective responses tailored to their unique contexts.
The need for a national response
The crisis of child sexual exploitation and abuse online is escalating. Children are increasingly at risk of online exploitation, making immediate and coordinated national action essential.
Key components of the Model National Response
The Model National Response includes critical elements for protecting children online:
- Legislation and policy frameworks: Establish laws and policies addressing online child exploitation and abuse.
- Prevention strategies: Develop initiatives to raise awareness about online abuse risks among children, parents, and educators.
- Law enforcement training: Equip law enforcement with skills to effectively investigate and prosecute online exploitation cases.
- Collaboration with the private sector: Engage technology companies to implement safety measures and reporting mechanisms.
- Data collection and research: Establish systems for collecting and sharing data related to online abuse to inform policy decisions.
- Victim support services: Ensure accessible support services for victims and their families.
Implementing the Model National Response
Successful implementation requires commitment and collaboration among stakeholders, including:
- Engagement and awareness: Raise awareness of child protection measures across society.
- Capacity building: Invest in training and development for professionals working with children.
- Monitoring and evaluation: Establish mechanisms to track progress and evaluate strategy effectiveness.
Model National Response Maturity Model
In partnership with UNICEF, WeProtect Global Alliance has developed a Model National Response Maturity Model to facilitate tailored national responses and foster continuous improvement. This Maturity Model outlines four phases for each capability: building, enhancement, integration, and maturity.
To support implementation, we offer a self-assessment tool and guidance available in Arabic, English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish. Both the Maturity Model and the self-assessment tool have been refined through feedback and pilot testing by government and civil society members of the Alliance.
- a self-assessment tool to accompany the Maturity Model
- a guide on how to use the Maturity Model and the self-assessment tool in Arabic, English, French, Portuguese and Spanish.
Launched in 2022, the Maturity Model provides a structured approach for countries to tailor their national responses while encouraging continuous improvement. It emphasizes that effective national responses require a holistic approach, allowing countries to progress through the phases based on their unique circumstances.
Reviewing the impact of the Model National Response
Framing the future report
The report “Framing The Future” is a review of the Model National Response that sets out how and where the framework has been implemented in the six years since its introduction across 42 Alliance countries.
Join the movement
If you are a government representative, civil society organization, or private sector leader interested in creating a safer digital environment for children, we invite you to get involved. Together, we can create lasting change and protect the rights of children worldwide.
For more information about the Model National Response and its implementation strategies, please contact us at gro.agtcetorpew@ofni