The LEAGUE project recently achieved a significant milestone with the successful organization of its inaugural International Training, held in Vienna on February 16, 2023. This event marked a crucial step forward in the project's mission to combat online child sexual abuse (OCSA) and enhance prevention efforts across Europe.

Attended by 28 participants representing 12 European countries and diverse professional backgrounds, including lawyers, psychologists, social workers, and government officials, the training was a collaborative effort organized by our consortium partners from SYNYO. Participants engaged in insightful discussions and workshops focused on identifying and preventing online child sexual abuse.

To facilitate effective learning and foster interdisciplinary exchange, participants were divided into small groups comprising five to six individuals, taking into account their nationalities and professions. This approach ensured a diverse and inclusive environment, enabling participants to share insights and experiences from their respective countries and professional fields.

Throughout the training, guided discussions led by consortium members explored key topics such as victim identification and risk factors, communication of digital consent, and practices to promote survivor-centered responses. Participants actively contributed their perspectives and key findings, enriching the collective understanding of the complex issue of online child sexual abuse.

The LEAGUE team considers the organization of the training and the invaluable insights gained from participant discussions as instrumental in informing and shaping the project's future initiatives. Reflecting on the outcomes and observations from the event, the LEAGUE team is poised to integrate these learnings into upcoming national trainings, ensuring their relevance and effectiveness in addressing OCSA at a local level.

The success of the International Training underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in combating online child sexual abuse and highlights the commitment of the LEAGUE consortium to driving positive change in this critical area. The event not only provided a platform for knowledge exchange but also reaffirmed the collective determination to strengthen project activities and bolster efforts to protect children from online harm.

As the LEAGUE project continues its journey, the insights gained from the International Training serve as a catalyst for further action and reinforce the project's resolve to make a meaningful impact in the fight against child sexual abuse on the internet.

Source: Third LEAGUE Press release