What is Child Sexual Abuse & Exploitation (CSAE)
Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) involves forcing or enticing a child under 18 into sexual activity — whether or not the child is aware that what is happening is abuse. ceop.police.uk+2CSA Centre+2
Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) is a form of CSA in which an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child or young person into sexual activity — often in exchange for something the victim needs or wants, or for the financial advantage or status of the perpetrator. ceop.police.uk+2childrenssociety.org.uk+2
Together we refer to them as CSAE — and the abuse can happen both offline and online. gfiu.gov.gi+1
How CSAE Happens
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Physical contact: abuse that includes sexual assault, forced sexual acts, or inappropriate touching. CSA Centre+1
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Non-contact sexual activities: for example encouraging children to look at or produce sexual images or videos, watch sexual activities, or be groomed in preparation for abuse. ceop.police.uk+1
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Online grooming and live streaming: using social media, chat, or live video to target children, build trust or control behaviour, or exploit them for sexual acts over the internet. gfiu.gov.gi+1
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Exploitation via exchange: offering gifts, money, status, drugs or affection to lure a child, then controlling or abusing them. childrenssociety.org.uk+1
Why it Matters & Its Impact
CSAE is not just a violation of law — it has profound, lasting personal and societal consequences:
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It can deeply damage a child’s trust, self-esteem and sense of safety. Wikipedia+1
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It can lead to long-term mental-health issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, relational difficulties and other negative outcomes. Wikipedia+1
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It undermines communities and social structures: children are one of the most vulnerable groups, and when they are harmed, it affects us all.
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Online abuse and exploitation escalate the scale and complexity of the problem: digital environments mean new risks, new methods of abuse and exploitation that cross jurisdictions. OECD+1
Recognising the Signs
Not all children will show obvious signs — but there are warning behaviours and cues that may indicate CSAE:
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Changes in behaviour: unexplained mood swings, withdrawal, fear of certain people or places.
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Physical signs: unexplained bruising or injuries, knowledge of sexual behaviour inappropriate for the child’s age. childrenssociety.org.uk+1
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Online red flags: a child receiving gifts or money from unknown persons, secretive internet use or mobile phone behaviour, sudden interest in sexual content.
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Social/educational indicators: skipping school, changes in friendships, going missing or returning late frequently, signs of drug or alcohol use in a younger person. childrenssociety.org.uk
How We Respond
At MATW Union we are committed to protecting children and responding to all concerns of CSAE in our community and spheres of influence. Our approach includes:
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Prevention – raising awareness and giving children, parents, caregivers and communities the knowledge to recognise, resist and report abuse.
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Safe Reporting – providing trusted channels and support mechanisms for children or adults to come forward when they suspect abuse.
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Support & Recovery – supporting survivors, ensuring their rights and dignity are respected, working with professional services for counselling and rehabilitation.
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Partnership & Referral – collaborating with law-enforcement, child protection agencies and local stakeholders to ensure timely referral, investigation and remedy.
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Digital Safety – encouraging safe internet practices, monitoring risk environments and advocating for stronger protections for children online.
What You Can Do
If you are a child:
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Know that it is never your fault if someone tries to abuse or exploit you. childrenssociety.org.uk
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Trust your instincts: if something feels wrong, talk to a parent, teacher, counsellor or someone you trust.
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Be cautious online: don’t share personal details, images or videos with strangers; watch out for people who try to give you gifts or attention in order to gain control.
If you are a parent, caregiver or educator:
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Talk openly with children about healthy boundaries, safe behaviours and what is appropriate/inappropriate contact.
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Monitor children’s digital and social-media activities; encourage open communication about what they do online and who they connect with.
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Recognise signs of abuse or exploitation and act early. Don’t delay.
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Create safe spaces where children feel they can speak up without fear or shame.
If you suspect abuse or exploitation:
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Do not confront the alleged perpetrator alone — your priority is the child’s safety and getting professional help. childrenssociety.org.uk
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Record your concerns (what you saw, what was said, when and where) and report them promptly to:
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local law-enforcement or child-protection authorities ;
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trusted organisations specialising in child safety and support.
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Ensure the child is supported, safe and heard — avoid blame or silence.
Reporting & Resources in India
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If you believe a child is in immediate danger — call your local police or dial the national helpline number (e.g., 1098 for children in need of care and protection in India).
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Contact trusted NGOs and child-protection organisations for support and guidance.
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Keep evidence safe (screenshots, chat logs, video/photographs) but do not investigate or share the material yourself. Let professionals handle it.
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Use secure and confidential channels when possible; ensure the child’s identity and dignity are protected throughout.
Our Commitment & Call to Action
We commit to working tirelessly to ensure that:
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Every child in our reach is aware of their rights to safety, protection and dignity.
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Abuse and exploitation are reported, investigated and addressed without delay.
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Survivors receive compassionate support, respect and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
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Communities, institutions and digital platforms are vigilant, aware and responsible.
We urge you — if you see something, hear something or feel something is wrong — please speak out. You could help save a child’s future.
Let us stand together — for children’s safety, for their right to live free from fear, abuse and exploitation.