Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse - Council of Europe Convention (2012)

This convention aims to prevent the sexual exploitation and sexual abuse of children, protect child victims of sexual offences and prosecute perpetrators. With an emphasis on respecting the rights of children and keeping their best interests in the forefront, the convention covers preventive measures; criminal offences, including several entirely new offences, such as "child grooming"; protective measures and assistance to child victims and their families; "child-friendly" procedures for investigation and prosecution which are adapted to children's special needs; intervention programmes or measures for child sex offenders; recording and storing of data on convicted sex offenders; international co-operation and a monitoring mechanism.