Press releases
Back to full list of press releases.
The Third International Virtual Global Taskforce Conference
18 - 20 February 2008
Vancouver, Canada
20 February, 2008
The Virtual Global Taskforce (VGT) has once again made an impact at its latest conference this time in Vancouver, Canada.
This Canadian led conference aptly titled ‘Children; Our Most Vital Asset’, saw over 180 take part. Delegates, who travelled from all over the world to attend, included representatives from public, private and voluntary sectors.
Presentations were delivered by guest speakers from law enforcement, charities and industry informing delegates of the latest initiatives in tackling sexual exploitation of children both on and offline.
The aim of the conference was to show that this is not solely a police issue, but one that needs a joint response throughout society, and the conference definitely delivered on this.
Following feedback one section of the conference which proved particularly popular were the education presentations. This section of the conference was dedicated to showcasing initiatives and campaigns being used in each of the jurisdictions to educate and arm young people with the right information to protect themselves online. The power of education is truly fundamental to tackling this crime. There was also a plea to have more youth presence at such events, as once again the importance of the children’s voice was recognised.
One powerful message sent out at the conference highlighted the effect of inappropriate terminology when talking about this crime type. Child sexual abuse is not child pornography and should not be referred to as such. A call to action was made to unite and stamp out the use of the term child pornography in relation to this brutal crime globally. Labelling images or film in which a child is horrifically abused is not only insulting to every victim but it belittles the atrocities of this crime and ultimately legitimises and almost excuses the perpetrator. It was requested that we all review the language used in public arenas and therefore encourage our own countries’ media to follow suit.
The Virtual Global Taskforce is positive that this conference will help raise awareness of this global crime and improve links worldwide.
The Virtual Global Taskforce is committed to continuing in the fight against the sexual exploitation of children every where.