Introduction Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in preventing and addressing online child sexual exploitation (OSEC). A study conducted by Terre des Hommes Netherlands examined how parental involvement influences children’s vulnerability or resilience to OSEC. Conducted in the Philippines, Nepal, and Cambodia, the study emphasized comprehensive solutions for parents and caregivers to combat online child abuse and exploitation, including: expanding positive parenting programs to enhance digital literacy and foster open communication between parents and children; providing targeted support for parents of vulnerable children, particularly those with intellectual disabilities or gender-diverse identities; encouraging greater involvement of fathers and male caregivers in child protection efforts; and strengthening community, NGO, and government support to reduce stigma, provide resources, and raise awareness of OSEC risks. The study formed the basis for the organization’s "Also Online" campaign, which provides parents with tips and tools to help them better protect their children online. Analysis A total of 338 respondents, including children, parents, community members, NGOs, and service providers, participated in the qualitative research across Asia. The study was guided by Youth Advisory Boards in each of the participating countries, where the rate of online child sexual exploitation is alarming. In the Philippines, 20% of children were reported as victims. In Nepal, 1 in 5 girls and 1 in 10 boys had experienced online sexual abuse and exploitation, while in Cambodia, 1 in 10 children faced similar threats. Children across the three study countries begin using the internet at an early age, with many starting as young as 3 to 5 years old, often by watching YouTube on their parents' phones or tablets. Being online has become an integral part of their lives, offering a sense of belonging in the digital age. However, many children—particularly girls—reported exposure to explicit sexual content and interactions with men offering gifts in exchange for sexual images. Girls were more likely to express concerns about online child sexual exploitation, while boys tended to focus on gaming and scams, often underestimating their own vulnerability. Cultural gender norms were cited as a factor in why boys received less attention and protection from caregivers. Children and youth often avoid discussing online risks with their parents due to fear of anger or punishment and because they perceive their caregivers as lacking digital knowledge. As a result, children rely on their own judgment or seek support from peers, navigating the digital world without adequate tools or guidance. An intersectional approach reveals that gender-diverse children are especially vulnerable to OSEC due to a lack of safe spaces and social support, which may lead them to riskier online environments. Similarly, neurodiverse children, particularly those with autism, face unique risks that often go unrecognized due to poor awareness and difficulties with communication and platform misuse. These challenges highlight the need for parents to be highly vigilant. The digital world is also reshaping parenting practices. Many parents feel overwhelmed by technology and admit to relying on their children for digital skills, which contributes to intergenerational conflicts and undermines parental authority. Most caregivers lack basic knowledge about OSEC, its signs, and how to prevent it. Stigma and taboo surrounding the topic make it difficult for them to seek help or even discuss it within the family. This leads to feelings of shame, guilt, and blame, particularly among parents of OSEC survivors, further isolating them. Parents also expressed concerns about their children’s mental health, linking it to excessive time spent on social media and gaming platforms. Many were unaware of how to report OSEC or risky online behavior and often turned to teachers or relatives for assistance. A pervasive fear of social judgment and victim blaming discourages open dialogue and effective reporting. High levels of corporal punishment within families were also reported, creating emotional distance and discouraging children from seeking help. Children noted that violent or disengaged parenting erodes trust and communication, making it harder to report online abuse. Fathers and male caregivers were often less engaged in safeguarding children online, perceiving their roles as disciplinary or financial rather than nurturing or protective. Community leaders and NGOs highlighted the lack of support systems for caregivers. NGOs emphasized the importance of improving digital literacy and OSEC awareness among parents, promoting open communication, and encouraging non-violent, engaged parenting. Positive parenting programs and Parent Support Groups were identified as effective tools for changing behaviors, breaking taboos, and fostering safer online environments for children. Country-Specific Challenges and Strategies in Online Child Protection Country Protective Factors Risk Factors Cambodia Opportunities for children to learn and talk about online safety. Remote communication between caregivers and children. Community support from leaders, such as Buddhist monks, promoting positive parenting. Low caregiver digital literacy, hindering effective communication. Vulnerable families struggle with traditional awareness methods due to complex language barriers and time constraints. Harmful social norms, including corporal punishment and taboos surrounding sexuality, persist. Nepal Older children use privacy settings and limit contact to known individuals. Trust-based parent-child communication enhances safety. Schools, community police, and NGOs play active roles in awareness efforts in project areas. NGOs provide support services, including counseling and training. High-risk behaviors include sexting and the modification of photos using generative AI. Online grooming, fraud, and exposure to explicit content are common. Exploitation often occurs on social media, gaming, and dating platforms. Rural areas have limited access to support services. Philippines Extended families, particularly aunts and grandparents, contribute to caregiving. Parents demonstrate willingness to improve protective strategies. Parenting programs and OSEC prevention activities exist, though resources remain limited. Caregivers lack a clear understanding of online abuse, despite strongly disapproving of it. Reporting mechanisms are often unclear and confusing. Community attitudes may normalize exploitative behavior. Children fear adult reactions and avoid disclosing online risks. Socioeconomic and cultural norms limit caregiver engagement in protection initiatives. Implications Supportive and informed parenting plays a key role in helping children navigate online spaces safely, highlighting the need for expanded parent support programs. Common parental advice such as “don't talk to strangers” and “let me know where you are” often focuses on offline safety, yet children increasingly face risks in digital spaces. As the online world continues to expand, it is important for parents to extend their guidance to include online interactions, ensuring children are equipped to recognize and respond to potential dangers. This is the focus of Terre des Hommes' "Also Online" campaign, which shares simple tools and tips to teach parents how to communicate with their children. Apart from parents and caregivers, various other stakeholders are responsible for a safer online world for children. Technology companies have a responsibility to evaluate how their platforms are used, develop safer products, and take proactive measures to prevent and remove harmful content. Governments also play a crucial role in enforcing online protections, ensuring safe digital environments for children, and strengthening policies that address emerging risks. Collaboration among caregivers, communities, technology providers, and policymakers is essential to creating a safer and more supportive online experience for children. Resource Terre des Hommes Netherlands. 2025. Understanding Parents and Caregivers Roles in Preventing and Responding to Online Child Sexual Exploitation: Multi-Country Research Report. Ask the Experts Zoe de Melo Thematic Programme Manager, Terre des Hommes Netherlands Zoe de Melo is based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and has worked on Terre des Hommes Netherlands projects in India, Nepal, the Philippines, Kenya, and Cambodia. Since 2019, she has specialized in addressing online child sexual exploitation. Terre des Hommes Netherlands Terre des Hommes Netherlands is a global child rights organization with a vision to ensure children flourish in a world free of all forms of exploitation. The organization works in Asia, Africa, and Europe, tackling the worst forms of child labor and child sexual and other exploitations in humanitarian settings. Together with its implementing partners, Terre des Hommes works to catalyze systemic change by placing children at the center. Follow Terre des Hommes Netherlands on Leave your question or comment in the section below: View the discussion thread.