Global Child Protection Summit 2023: Uniting to Protect, Empower, and Partner

On October 5, 2023, the Global Child Protection Summit brought together global leaders, experts, and advocates to the historic Castello di Tabiano, Italy. Organized by the International Center for Missing and Exploited Children (ICMEC), the event, titled “Protect, Empower, and Partner,” focused on the urgent issues of child exploitation, abduction, and online abuse. With the world becoming more digitally connected, this summit aimed to foster stronger international collaboration and offer practical solutions for the protection of children worldwide.

ICMEC’s Mission to Protect Children: The Words of Ernesto Caffo

Dr. Ernesto Caffo, President of Fondazione Child, set the tone for the summit by underscoring ICMEC’s mission to protect children globally, especially those often overlooked by traditional systems. He emphasized the need for concrete, actionable tools and training programs that empower institutions such as law enforcement and social care organizations to tackle child exploitation more effectively.

“What we try to do is to protect children in different situations all around the world with concrete instruments. We work in collaboration with many international organizations, but what characterizes our organization is the building of tools, instruments, and training activities that can be effective worldwide,” Caffo said.

Caffo also highlighted how the rise of digital technology has complicated child protection efforts, stating, “In the digital world, exploitation has entered the lives of children and their communities with devastating consequences, making state intervention, NGO collaboration, and corporate responsibility all the more crucial.”

The Ukrainian Crisis: A Humanitarian Call for Action

A pivotal moment in the summit came from Dmytro Lubinets, Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights, who addressed the audience via video link. He revealed the harrowing scale of child abduction and deportation caused by the ongoing war with Russia.

“There are 19,600 children registered as missing or abducted by Russian forces, but we believe the real number is much higher. So far, only 400 have been brought back. We must continue to raise awareness, advocate for sanctions, and send a clear message that impunity is not acceptable until all the children are safely returned,” said Lubinets.

The urgency of his message resonated deeply with the summit’s attendees, who echoed the need for immediate international intervention and support for Ukraine. ICMEC’s Missing Children engine was highlighted as a valuable tool in reuniting missing children with their families.

Legislative Progress and Global Collaboration: Paula Guillet de Monthoux

Paula Guillet de Monthoux, Secretary General of the World Childhood Foundation, brought positive news regarding legislative advancements against child exploitation online. However, she emphasized that while progress has been made, more needs to be done to protect children from marginalized communities.

“We’ve seen great progress in legislation to protect children from sexual abuse online, but legislation is just the beginning. Prevention and support for the most vulnerable children—those from marginalized groups such as LGBTQ children, children with disabilities, and institutionalized children—are essential. These are the ones most at risk,” she remarked.

Her call for a greater focus on preventative measures at the grassroots level, involving civil society and local action, added a layer of practicality to the discussions.

The Role of Technology: Cardinal Peter Turkson’s Vision

Cardinal Peter Turkson, Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences and former Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, addressed the summit on how technology can be a powerful tool in protecting children.

“We must look at how modern technology, including digital and cyber tools, can be used to locate, protect, and safeguard children from harm. It is no longer just about physical spaces but virtual ones too,” he said.

Turkson highlighted examples of how technological innovations, such as content moderation and age restrictions, can limit children’s exposure to harmful online content. He urged tech companies to take greater responsibility in safeguarding young users.

Baroness Beeban Kidron on Digital Accountability

Baroness Beeban Kidron, a crossbench peer in the UK House of Lords and a prominent advocate for digital rights, called for urgent reforms in the digital world, which she argued does not adequately account for children’s safety.

“In the digital world we’ve let develop, we have failed to take true account of childhood. We have failed to put children’s safety and needs first as they grow up,” said Kidron. “This must change, and we need to create a digital environment where children can explore safely, free from the risks of exploitation.”

Fundraising for the Future: A Gala for Action

The event concluded with a fundraising gala, sponsored by Kristofer Ruscon, founder of Hatt & Söner Champagne House. The proceeds were dedicated to supporting ICMEC’s ongoing mission to protect children, particularly those impacted by war and exploitation. Ruscon highlighted the importance of helping children in crisis, stating, “Helping children, especially educating social workers in Ukraine to support these children, is not just about today—it’s about giving the country a future.”

A Shared Mission for the Future of Child Protection

The Global Child Protection Summit reaffirmed the importance of collaboration across borders, sectors, and institutions. By bringing together key voices and decision-makers, the summit showcased the power of collective action in tackling complex child protection challenges.

As Dr. Ernesto Caffo closed the summit, he left the attendees with a resounding message: “We must continue working for the invisible children, for those left behind. It is only through unity and shared responsibility that we can protect, empower, and secure the future for all children.”

Fondazione Child is honored to support initiatives like the Global Child Protection Summit, reaffirming its commitment to advancing children’s rights, ensuring their protection, and advocating for their well-being. Through ongoing collaboration, advocacy, and action, we strive to create a world where every child is valued, protected, and given the opportunity to thrive.