A new initiative in Macedonia has highlighted the significant prevalence of technology-facilitated abuse targeting minors. According to the “Disrupting Harm” (Sprecu na štetu) call, an estimated 12,000 children between the ages of 12 and 17 were exposed to sexual exploitation and abuse using digital technologies within a single year. The report, issued on August 26, 2026, underscores that the abuse occurs within contexts involving digital communication and the internet, encompassing situations where the exploitation or abuse has already taken place.
The findings reveal a critical public health and safety concern regarding the vulnerability of young people to online predatory activities. This alarming statistic prompts the urgent need for comprehensive preventative measures, robust protection frameworks, and dedicated support systems for affected children. The focus of the call is to address the multifaceted nature of this modern threat, which utilizes various digital platforms to facilitate harmful interactions.
Experts involved in the development of this initiative emphasize that the issue extends beyond mere exposure; it involves active victimization through digital means. Addressing this requires a multi-sectoral approach involving law enforcement, educational institutions, and technology providers. The goal is to mitigate the risk of further sexual exploitation by developing better safeguards and providing immediate, accessible support networks for the children who are victims of these crimes.
The data presented serves as a catalyst for policy changes aimed at safeguarding the digital well-being of the nation’s youth.
Topics: #children #sexual #exploitation
