Report calls for educational programs to prevent online violence

02 / 12 / 2022

By Marwa Nassar - -

A new report, What works to prevent online violence against children, issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a report underlining the importance of implementing educational programs directed at children and parents to prevent online violence.

Studies have shown their effectiveness in reducing levels of victimization, curbing abusers, and associated risk behaviors such as alcohol and drug abuse.

“This new document provides for the first time a clear direction for action by governments, donors and other development partners, showing that we must address online and offline violence together if we are to be effective”, said Etienne Krug, Director of the WHO Department of Social Determinants of Health.

The report recommends implementing school-based educational programs, promoting interaction among youth, and engaging parents.

It also underscores the importance of training young people in assertiveness, empathy, problem-solving, emotion management and seeking help, among other skills.

WHO pointed out that educational programs are more successful with multiple and varied delivery formats such as videos, games, posters, infographics and guided discussions.

Governments must find the right balance between developing digital opportunities and protecting users from harm.

The UN health agency is committed to contributing to better understanding all forms of violence against children and helping to guide the international response.

As part of its public health approach, WHO currently aids in supporting data collection on violence against children; researching factors that can increase or decrease violence; implementing and evaluating interventions; and scaling up evidence-based interventions, such as those illustrated in INSPIRE: Seven strategies for Ending Violence Against Children.