UN outlines to reduce online violence against children

In its new report, ‘’What works to prevent online violence against children'', WHO focuses on ways of curbing the grooming of youngsters via the Internet, sexual image abuse - and cyber aggression and harassment in the form of cyberbullying, cyberstalking, hacking and identity theft.

The report also showcases strategies and best practices to better protect children.

“Our children spend more and more time online; as such, it is our duty to make the online environment safe”, noted Etienne Krug, Director of the WHO Department of Social Determinants of Health.

The report highlights the importance of implementing educational programmes directed at children and parents to prevent online violence.

Studies have shown their effectiveness in reducing levels of victimization, curbing abusers, and associated risk behaviours such as alcohol and drug abuse.

“This new document provides for the first time a clear direction for action by governments, donors and other development partners, showing that we must address online and offline violence together if we are to be effective”, added Krug.

The report recommends implementing school-based educational programmes, promoting interaction among youth, and engaging parents.

It also underscores the importance of training young people in assertiveness, empathy, problem-solving, emotion management and seeking help, among other skills.

WHO pointed out that educational programmes are more successful with multiple and varied delivery formats such as videos, games, posters, infographics and guided discussions.

Improvements must be made in several areas, according to the report.

Given the overlap of problems and solutions, more violence prevention programmes are needed to address the problem, together with offline violence prevention.