Convention on the Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse (Lanzarote Convention)

Summary

Sexual exploitation and abuse of children are severe forms of violence, with about one in five children in Europe affected. The Lanzarote Convention, adopted in 2007, is the first regional treaty focused on protecting children from sexual violence. It encourages States to establish higher standards and promotes harmonization for better national and international cooperation. The Convention’s “4 Ps approach” includes Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Promotion of cooperation. It mandates awareness programs, screening, and training for those working with children, support and therapeutic services for victims, and child-friendly judicial proceedings. It criminalizes child sexual abuse, exploitation through prostitution, child pornography, participation in pornographic performances, and corruption of children. The Convention aims to reduce offenders’ risk, increase data comparability, and facilitate international cooperation.