Hi John, Before each IJM Advocacy Summit, we take time to research and identify a pressing issue within our scope of work that could benefit from a legislative solution. This year, we picked an issue that is overdue for action: online sexual exploitation of children, otherwise known as OSEC. OSEC is one of the fastest-growing forms of abuse. Millions of reports involving suspected online child exploitation are submitted every year to the CyberTipline operated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). From IJM’s own experience, one form of technology-facilitated exploitation happens when perpetrators pay traffickers – often parents or family friends of the victims – to produce images, videos or livestreamed “shows” of the sexual abuse of minors over the internet. This horrific crime is especially rampant in the Philippines due to widespread poverty, availability of internet access and broad English language proficiency. Customers anywhere in the world can pay for and direct the sexual abuse from their own homes. Here are a few facts to know about OSEC from IJM’s work: In 2022, an estimated 1 in 100 Filipino children were victims of OSEC. The median age of victims is 11 years old, and the average period of abuse is two years. Children under 3 years old made up 9% of victims. In 2024, the CyberTipline received 20.5 million reports of suspected child sexual exploitation. More than 1,500 Filipino children have been rescued from OSEC by IJM and our partners. It’s a sickening reality that this form of abuse is still so prevalent in the world. But we’re here today because we believe we can create a safer internet for children everywhere. Do you want to be part of ending this crime? Then join us at IJM’s 2025 Advocacy Summit this Sept. 9-10 as we speak up against OSEC and advocate for the policies that can end it for good. Leaders in some of the most influential seats in the country are listening. It’s time for us to speak up. Register today to secure your spot. REGISTER I hope to see you on Capitol Hill! Until all are free, Nate King Director, U.S. Policy and Advocacy Bizzabo Inc. 31W 27th St, New York, NY 10001 Copyright © 2017 Bizzabo, All rights reserved. For questions or feedback, please contact the organizer. Unsubscribe in order to stop receiving emails from this organizer.