SIC+ programme: Republic of Moldova - International Centre La Strada

The International Centre La Strada is a national non-governmental organisation dedicated to upholding the rights of women and children to live free from violence. Over the past two decades, we have collaborated with governmental and civil society entities, justice system stakeholders, frontline law enforcement, healthcare and social service professionals, educational institutions, media outlets, and academia to promote and protect the rights of women and children. Our efforts focus on supporting survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, sexual violence, online child sexual exploitation, and sexual abuse.

Every year, during Safer Internet Day, educational institutions and NGOs mobilise extensively to conduct various awareness-raising activities focused on child safety online. Throughout February, teachers lead informational sessions for students ranging from primary to secondary school. Furthermore, a national contest for teachers is organised to further promote awareness and engagement in this important cause. As the National SID Committee, La Strada Moldova implements the campaign of the international initiative in the Republic of Moldova, with the slogan "Together for a better internet". Our mission includes raising awareness about online safety, promoting responsible internet use, and fostering a positive digital environment.

Since 2013, La Strada has offered specialised online counselling services for children experiencing any form of online abuse through the www.siguronline.md platform. This platform provides information, guidance, emotional support, and referrals to free psychological and legal assistance services for children who have been victims of online sexual abuse. Additionally, the portal offers practical advice for avoiding risky actions and behaviours online. This resource enables parents and teachers to gain a better understanding of the internet, its associated risks for children, and the interests of children growing up in the digital age. It also empowers them to support children in any situation. Anyone concerned about a child's safety, including children themselves, parents, teachers, or caregivers, can use the online chat feature to speak with a specialist or consultant regarding any form of violence the child has experienced online.

The Siguronline Hotline, managed by the International Centre La Strada, became part of the INHOPE network on 25 April 2023, joining the fight against child sexual abuse material online. The hotline offers the public and service providers an easy way to quickly and anonymously report suspected child sexual abuse materials. Photo and video images in which minors appear partially undressed, in nude poses or involved in real and simulated sexual activities can be reported to be removed from the online environment on the www.siguronline.md platform.

Youth participation in promoting child safety online remains low. La Strada has been actively working to address this issue by conducting awareness-raising activities for children’s councils and youth centres, encouraging them to play a more active role in disseminating online safety tips to their peers. Additionally, as part of the National Contest for Teachers on Child Safety Online, organised annually on Safer Internet Day, La Strada promotes youth participation in promoting safe internet use.