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       ISLAMABAD: An Interpol team was given a comprehensive briefing during their visit to the Federal Ombudsman Secretariat on Thursday on government efforts to curb cybercrimes against children.

       The visit was part of the initiatives to combat online child exploitation. The team was headed by Gabriela Javera Chamorro Concha, the criminal intelligence officer at Interpol’s Crimes Against Children Unit.

       The officials informed the team about several initiatives taken for children’s welfare, including the appointment of a ‘full-fledged grievance commissioner’ to keep a watch over the state of children.

       The official also monitors media reports to identify cases of violence against children, supporting parliament for legislative reforms, addressing systemic issues through consultation with key stakeholders.

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       The team was told that the Office of the Grievance Commissioner for Children has vigorously pursued cases of cybercrimes against children and identified some of the key areas for intervention like creating awareness, sensitisation of media, advocacy and capacity building along with the legislative reforms.

       The Interpol officials were informed that active lobbying with relevant stakeholders enabled proactive robust responses on awareness campaigns.

       “Public services messages are being disseminated through Pemra, PTV, PBC, PTA and social media sources.”

       They were also apprised of the Zainab Alert and Response and Recovery Act 2020 in this regard.

       The team commended the efforts being made for the welfare of children, particularly to curb cybercrimes against them.

       It also underlined the need for promoting cooperation and greater sharing of experiences for mutual advantage.

       Published in Dawn, November 8th, 2024