Council of Europe Convention on the Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse
Official Text
The Convention ensures that certain types of conduct are classified as criminal offences, such as engaging in sexual activities with a child below the legal age and child prostitution and pornography. Furthermore, it criminalises the use of the new technologies to sexually harm or abuse children, for example by grooming.
In attempting to combat child sex tourism, the Convention establishes that individuals can be prosecuted for some offences even when the act is committed abroad.
Preventive measures outlined in the Convention include the screening, recruitment and training of people working in contact with children, making children aware of the risks and teaching them to protect themselves, as well as monitoring measures for offenders and potential offenders.
The Convention also establishes programmes to support victims, encourages people to report suspected sexual exploitation and abuse, and sets up telephone and internet help lines for children.
Further Information
- Council of Europe – Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse Website
- Council of Europe - European Committee on Legal Co-operation (CDCJ) Website
- Council of Europe Campaign ONE in FIVE Website
- Parliamentary Dimension of the ONE in FIVE Campaign Website
- Council of Europe – Building a Europe for and with Children
- Explanatory Report to the Convention
Update: 19.08.2011
