Alarming location: young people and sexual violence online

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In the digital world, which is inextricably linked to the everyday life of young people today, there are worrying developments. Claus, the representative for questions of sexual abuse, recently commented on the alarming normalization of sexual violence on the Internet. Many children and adolescents now find it "completely normal" to be confronted with such terrible content in online rooms, which only reinforces the expert's concern. The unchecked way, as criminals come in contact with minors, is more than worrying.

One of the main reasons for this problem is the lack of social control. While parents and other adults often have an eye on children's activities in real life, they often lose track in the digital world. This means that young people can act and communicate much more unprotected. The possibility of acting for perpetrators, undisturbed and anonymously, is omnipresent and represents a significant threat to the safety of minors.

Need of resources for investigative authorities

Claus emphasizes that it is crucial to bundle the resources of the investigative authorities, since the extent of violence on the Internet is alarming. The pressure on the police and other institutions that have to do with cyber crime is growing. In order to meet this seriousness of the situation, additional means and support are required to take targeted measures against this type of crime.

A higher level of sensitization and preventive educational offers are also required to educate children and adolescents about the dangers that they are exposed to on the Internet. It is strongly recommended that schools and parents work hand in hand to integrate these topics in everyday life at an early stage. Enlightenment can help young people make informed decisions and better protect themselves from possible attacks.

expansion of help offers

The creation of easier and direct reporting and complaint paths is essential. Claus calls for an extended range of auxiliary services for affected young people who may have been victims of sexual violence online. In many cases, those affected do not have the opportunity to get support quickly and effectively. This has to change to ensure the protection of children and adolescents in the digital space.

In view of those affected by these crimes, it is important to address the psychological effects of such experiences. Those affected not only need legal support, but also psychological support to process the trauma experienced. A comprehensive network of help offers is necessary to help young people who have suffered injuries through such serious experiences.

In summary, it can be said that the challenges that the technology brings, especially for children and adolescents, require profound answers from society. It is essential that both politics and the community work together to create a safe space on the Internet. Clear structures, support and education are crucial so that the young users can navigate well protected in the digital world.

protective measures for the digital generation

Today's digital generation has access to a wealth of information and possibilities, but this freedom also brings immense risks. Protecting children on the Internet must be a top priority, especially with regard to the unmistakable dangers of sexual violence. It is due to the entire society to react to it and take a proactive steps to secure the life of the next generation.

The dimension of the problem

The challenges in front of which children and adolescents are in digital space are enormous. According to a study by the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) from 2020, the number of crimes committed via the Internet increased significantly. The increase in cases of sexual violence is particularly alarming. The data show that a third of the respondents between the ages of 12 and 17 have already been bothered, be it due to inappropriate news, pictures or direct contact requests. These figures clarify that the phenomenon are not isolated cases, but rather a systematic and widespread problem.

Many experts therefore call for political measures to advance effective prevention and education. Enlightenment about risks on the Internet should start at school in order to sensitize the dangers at an early stage. Initiatives such as “Klicksafe” offer materials and workshops to train children and young people in dealing with digital media.

role of social media

The social media landscape has a significant impact on how young people communicate with each other. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok or Snapchat have become a daily form of communication, but also bring risks with them. The anonymity of these platforms often allows perpetrators to contact minors unhindered and manipulate them.

dealing with these risks not only requires information, but also technical solutions. Some social networks are already reacting to the dangers by introducing functions that make it difficult for the exchange of non -youth -free content or limit contact with unknown people. Nevertheless, the responsibility also remains with the parents, who have to convey to their children with a secure handling of these platforms.

support offers for those affected

For children and adolescents who are victims of sexual violence online, it is crucial to have access to help offers. Organizations such as the "Number against grief" offer contact points and advice to offer affected support. They help to process experiences and give the victims a forum where they can feel safe.

In addition, it is important that schools actively address these problems and offer advisory services. Contact with experts can help reduce shame and the stigma, which is often associated with sexual abuse, and to show the victims ways how they can protect themselves. The expansion of such offers could be a crucial step to alleviate the consequences in the life of those affected.