Working with the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications to Combat Online Child Sexual Exploitation in Cambodia
The alarming rate of online child sexual exploitation (OCSE) in Cambodia has prompted urgent action from government agencies, NGOs, and private sector companies. According to the 2022 Disrupting Harm report in Cambodia, 1 in every 10 children in the country has faced online sexual abuse and exploitation. 9% of Cambodian children have received unwanted sexual messages from strangers online.
To combat this issue, the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications in Cambodia (MPTC), in collaboration with Terre des Hommes Netherlands in Asia (TdH NL), is working closely to raise awareness, improve prevention measures, and provide a better support system for victims.
A Fragmented System in Need of Reform
One of the primary challenges in Cambodia identified by MPTC and TdH NL after working together with the ARN network is the fragmented nature of current support systems for victims of OCSE. The ARN network is a group of NGOs in Cambodia working together on the ground with the victims and with the community. While numerous organisations are involved in prevention and response efforts, a lack of coordination from a single reporting mechanism has hindered effective intervention.
Building a Unified Front
“We learn a lot about how fragmented our reporting system and helplines are in Cambodia,” Sodany pointed out the lack of coordination in the support system. To address this issue, MPTC and TdH NL are working together to establish a centralised reporting system that will provide a more efficient and comprehensive response to cases of OCSE.
“So from this dialogue and the network that we have worked with, introduced by SCROL and TdH NL, we plan to have a single reporting system, an integrated one that can effectively support and help the victims,” Sodany explained. This integrated system aims to streamline the process for victims to report abuse and connect them with necessary support services through the helplines.
Private Sector Engagement
MPTC launched and established the Child Online Protection Guidelines for the digital industry in Cambodia in June 2023. “Child online sexual abuse materials keep increasing from time to time in Cambodia,” Sodany continues, “our children are facing the harm and risk online so we need to take immediately actions.”
Sodany is currently working on digital inclusion, literacy, and online safety programs in Cambodia, while also being involved in the monitoring and evaluation of IT development, “We’re working with the SCROL programme on developing the code of conduct for digital companies in Cambodia so that they can involve in protecting the children online.”
Public Awareness
In addition to improving support systems, MPTC is working with the SCROL team to raise public awareness about the dangers of OCSE and empower individuals to recognise and prevent various forms of online child sexual exploitation.
A social media awareness campaign organised by SCROL, MPTC and led by popular social media influencer Catherine Harry has reached an average of 120,000 adolescents per post.
A Brighter Future for Cambodia's Children
By strengthening collaboration, raising awareness, and improving support systems, Cambodia is taking significant strides towards combating online child sexual exploitation. The joint efforts of the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications Cambodia, Terre des Hommes Netherlands, and other key stakeholders are crucial in protecting children from the risk of OCSE. As these initiatives continue to evolve, Cambodia can look forward to a future where children are safe and empowered in the digital world.