The third regional conference to promote the entry into force of the CoE Convention on the protection of children against sexual exploitation and abuses is starting today in Warsaw (until tomorrow). According to the CoE, 10 to 20 per cent of minors are victims of sexual abuses in their childhood. The Convention, as explained in a note, "is a precious instrument to prevent and fight against every violation of the fundamental rights of the minors and constitutes a remarkable step forward in the strengthening of international co-operation." The document is the only treaty in the world to establish the "grooming" offence (the attempt made by adults to solicit children and adolescents for sexual purposes, i.e. through discussion forums). The CoE is committed to raise awareness about the necessity of a rapid enforcement of the Convention and to assist States with the ratification process through a series of regional conferences. It is fundamental that more and more governments follow the example set by the 32 countries that have already signed the Convention so that the latter could come into force in 2009. ” ” ” “
