UNICEF survey finds one in five youths experience online sexual abuse

A new UNICEF survey of approximately 21,000 adolescents and young adults across 30 countries reveals a marked increase in the online sexual abuse of minors. Conducted between January and June 2024, the study asked participants aged 13 to 24 about their experiences with digital platforms, uncovering that one in five respondents reported having been subjected to sexual solicitation, grooming, or explicit content sharing—a rise of roughly 15 % compared with the agency’s 2021 findings. The data indicate that the surge is most pronounced in regions with high internet penetration and limited digital safety regulations, where victims often encounter perpetrators through social media, gaming networks, and messaging apps.

UNICEF officials said the results underscore the growing vulnerability of children in an increasingly connected world and called for coordinated action among governments, tech companies, and civil‑society groups. The agency highlighted the need for stronger age‑verification tools, comprehensive online‑safety education, and rapid‑response mechanisms to protect at‑risk youth. As the digital environment evolves, UNICEF plans to expand monitoring efforts and support policy initiatives aimed at curbing the exploitation of minors online.