How NGOs Can Use the Universal Classification Schema
15. Aug. 2025
Civil society organisations play a vital role in the global effort to prevent child sexual abuse and exploitation. Whether focused on advocacy, victim support, research, prevention, or public awareness, NGOs need accurate, consistent language to describe the harms they are addressing. The Universal Classification Schema provides that language and supports stronger collaboration across systems and sectors.
NGOs can use the Schema to improve the way they document trends, engage in policy dialogue, and produce analysis that is aligned with law enforcement and hotline systems. This strengthens evidence-based advocacy and helps ensure that the experiences of children are described in ways that are clear, consistent, and respectful.
For NGOs working on legal reform or policy development, the Schema offers a reference point for evaluating national legislation and proposing more harmonised definitions. It helps highlight where gaps exist in national laws and how specific types of abuse may not be fully addressed. Organisations can use Schema labels in legal briefings, comparative analysis, or to support alignment with international frameworks such as the EU CSA Regulation or the Lanzarote Convention.
In training and capacity building, the Schema can support professionals working in child protection, social services, or education to better understand the range of abuse and exploitation that may occur online. It offers a clear structure for discussing complex issues in a way that is both evidence-informed and accessible to diverse audiences.
NGOs involved in research can also benefit from the Schema. Whether conducting prevalence studies, analysing policy impact, or documenting patterns of abuse, using a standard classification system increases the comparability of findings across time and geography. It also supports partnerships with industry, academia, and law enforcement by ensuring that data is interpreted in a shared context.
As more systems adopt the Schema, NGOs will be essential in reflecting on how the classification framework is applied, how it intersects with child rights principles, and where improvements are needed. The Schema is not only a technical tool. It is a shared foundation that helps NGOs speak with clarity, advocate with authority, and collaborate more effectively to protect children.