Council of Europe: a report to callfor better protection of children against sexual abuse in their circle of trust

On 15 October 2025, a comprehensive report was published by the Council of Europe’s Lanzarote Committee on “Protecting children against sexual abuse in the circle of trust”. The report measures progress made since the first monitoring report in 2015 and it examines how the 48 state parties to the Lanzarote Convention can further strengthen their legal frameworks to better prevent abuse and protect victims. 

The report recognises that progress has been made since 2015, with several parties now criminalising sexual abuse of children of all ages by individuals in a position of trust, influence or authority. As for sexual abuse in the family context , most parties ensure the removal of the alleged perpetrator from the home even before the start of criminal proceedings. In this regard, the report highlights that progress has been made also in safeguarding child victims during the investigations and proceedings. 

The Lanzarote Committee calls on those parties that have yet to ensure these kinds of protections, to follow suit. Moreover, it requires parties to provide comprehensive education to help children recognise and avoid harmful sexual activities and to help them know how to access support if they are victims. Additionally, The Committee recommends that parties establish and enhance mechanisms to supervise convicted offenders.