Protecting children from online sexual abuse in Bangladesh: A policy brief

Background: Online sexual abuse is a growing concern in Bangladesh, particularly as children are increasingly accessing the internet and social media. This paper examines the prevalence and impact of online sexual abuse on children in Bangladesh, and provides policy recommendations to protect children from this type of abuse. Methods: This policy brief was prepared after reviewing findings of the research works conducted on online child sexual abuse. Results: Around 86% female and 91% male children of Bangladesh use the internet. Among the internet users, about one in two children are sexually abused. In addition to the Children Act 2013, the government of Bangladesh enacted the ICT Act 2006 and the Digital Security Act 2018 to address cybercrimes. However, these acts do not specifically address the issue of online child sexual abuse. In addition, the legal provisions lack strict enforcement and the media at times discloses the identities of child victims including images. Policy recommendations: The government, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders need to take a comprehensive approach to protect children from online sexual abuse including improving the legal framework, strengthening child protection mechanisms, increasing awareness and education on safe internet use, and empowering children and their families to report incidents of online sexual abuse. Anonymous reporting system needs to be developed and strict legal measures must be enforced. Conclusion: Protecting children from online sexual abuse requires a sustained multi-stakeholder approach that involves the government, civil society organizations, parents, educators, and children themselves. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University Journal 2023;16(2): 111-117