Marist Institute promotes event against the exploitation and abuse of children online
In an increasingly digital world, where children’s interactions extend far beyond the physical realm, protecting their innocence from online exploitation and abuse has become an urgent priority. On February 11, 2025 (1 PM CET on ZOOM), the Marist Institute will host a critical virtual event, “Safeguarding Innocence: strategies against online child exploitation and abuse,” which will bring together experts, advocates, and members of the Marist community to address these challenges and explore how children can be empowered to safeguard their rights and well-being.
You can register in this link to participate in the online meeting.
The event, organized by the Secretariat of Solidarity-Cmi and FMSI, with the support of the Secretariat of Education and Evangelization, will highlight the Marist commitment to child protection, with a focus on promoting children’s protagonism, empowering them to actively defend their rights, and ensuring that they have the tools to protect themselves from online risks. The Marist Institute has consistently prioritized the well-being of children, advocating for their rights and providing an environment that fosters their growth, safety, and dignity.
The Marist values of solidarity, justice, and education are deeply ingrained in this commitment, and they continue to shape the initiatives aimed at combating online child exploitation. Br. Ken McDonald, General Councilor and FMSI President, will open the event by reaffirming the Marist’s dedication to child protection and the fight against abuse. This introduction sets the stage for a meaningful dialogue on the importance of self-protection and active engagement by children in safeguarding their rights.
Ms. Agnes Reyes, from the Philippines, will present a powerful session on the empowerment of children, focusing on their ability to protect themselves in the digital world. Her presentation will include a video showcasing how children, particularly in vulnerable settings, are becoming protagonists of their own safety. This aligns with the Marist belief that children are not passive recipients of care but active agents in their protection, equipped with the right education and support to navigate their digital lives safely.
The event will also feature Ms. Bárbara PimpĂŁo Ferreira, from Brazil, who will discuss the campaign “Defenda-se”. This initiative encourages children to take a proactive role in defending their rights, with an emphasis on self-protection strategies and the importance of raising awareness about online threats. Through campaigns like “Defenda-se”, the Marist Institute continues to empower children, giving them the voice and agency to advocate for their safety.
Ms. Valerie Philpott, Safeguarding Advisor for Misean Cara, will then delve into building comprehensive safeguarding systems that address online risks to protect children. Her presentation will explore the necessary frameworks and strategies to ensure that children are safe in all environments.
The results of a survey on teenagers’ and young people’s perceptions of safety while interacting online will be presented by Ms. MĂłnica Yerena, a Lay Marist from Mexico. This survey sheds light on how young people perceive the digital risks they face and how they can be better supported in making informed decisions about their online interactions.
The event will conclude with reflections and final greetings from Br. Diego Zawadzky, Assistant Director of the Secretariat of Solidarity – CMI, that will offer concluding thoughts on the importance of continued efforts to safeguard children’s rights and ensure their digital safety in the future.
Br. Niño Pizzaro, from the Secretariat of Education and Evangelization, will moderate the meeting.
This event is a significant step forward in the Marist Institute’s ongoing commitment to child protection. By empowering children with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to protect themselves, the Marist community continues to promote a world where children can grow, learn, and thrive in safety and dignity.
The Marist commitment to safeguarding children’s rights, especially in the face of growing online risks, is a testament to the enduring Marist values of education, solidarity, and social justice.
