About the research Seven years ago, UNICEF Innocenti, ECPAT International, INTERPOL and Safe Online embarked on a journey to better understand how technology is being used to sexually exploit and abuse children, and how governments, institutions, communities and technology companies can prevent these crimes and respond more effectively. What followed became one of the largest research projects on technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and abuse to date: the Disrupting Harm project. Tens of thousands of children, caregivers, professionals and policymakers shared their experiences and perspectives, helping build a richer understanding of how this form of violence affects children’s lives. Throughout the research, children shared experiences that were often deeply distressing and painful to hear. At the same time, it has foregrounded children’s agency, insights and willingness to contribute to research that they hoped would help protect others. One of the most important lessons from Disrupting Harm is that it is possible to conduct research on these sensitive issues ethically and safely with children. Doing so, however, is not a straightforward process. It requires careful preparation, robust safeguarding systems, skilled researchers, meaningful partnerships with local organizations and an unwavering commitment to placing children’s well-being first. It also requires donors with the vision and commitment to invest in high-quality, ethical research while providing the flexibility needed to navigate complex realities on the ground. Safe Online’s long-term support is what made this research possible. ECPAT International and INTERPOL’s Crimes Against Children Unit have remained steadfast partners throughout, demonstrating that sustained collaboration, mutual trust and complementary expertise are essential for overcoming complex research challenges and generating robust evidence that no single organization could have produced alone. This report aims to contribute to a better future; one in which policymakers, practitioners, technology companies, educators and communities have better evidence to guide their decisions, and in which children’s voices and experiences are taken seriously and translated into meaningful action. It seeks to strengthen the systems that prevent harm, support children when abuse occurs and hold perpetrators accountable. Through Children’s Eyes About the research 43