The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) has launched a deliberately provocative public campaign in Brussels calling on EU citizens and MEPs to back a robust Child Sexual Abuse Regulation (CSAR). Titled "The Petition No One Would Sign," the campaign presents a mock petition asking the public to support making it easier for child sexual abuse to spread online — a proposition no one would actually endorse — to highlight the real-world consequences of a weak or delayed CSAR. Launched physically across Brussels, including at Schuman Metro station, and digitally across Europe, the campaign coincides with EU negotiators resuming talks this autumn after four years of stalled progress. The IWF cites a 260-fold rise in AI-generated child sexual abuse videos in 2025 alone. CEO Kerry Smith argues the technology and proposals to protect children already exist — what's missing is political will. The campaign urges citizens to contact their MEPs before the CSAR's temporary legal basis lapses in 2028.
ECLAG high-level event on March 20 in Brussels will discuss what vital new EU legislation needs in order to be effective.
Impact assessment criticising EU proposal to tackle child sexual abuse material shows ‘gaps in knowledge and understanding of key issues’, IWF warns
IWF signs open letter applauding LIBE Committee’s report and supports calls for amendments that will more concretely ensure child safety online.
The EU ePrivacy derogation has lapsed, leaving children vulnerable. We must restore legal certainty for CSAM detection. Protecting children is not a threat to privacy; it is a fundamental human right.
Record amount of online child sexual abuse blocked as landmark Bill faces delays
Key legislation aimed at preventing online harms will return to Parliament next month following fears it could have been dropped altogether.
New Internet Watch Foundation data reveals a sharp rise in commercial child sexual abuse websites, with criminal gangs monetising children’s exploitation through subscription models and digital payments. The charity warns of systemic failures across online platforms, financial services and encrypted technologies that allow abuse to flourish. As reports of sexual extortion surge, particularly targeting boys, the IWF calls for stronger regulation of payment systems, encryption safeguards and decisive government action to disrupt the online economy of child sexual exploitation.
The letter says the proposal would have powerful implications, not just for Europe but for the world.
IWF joins call to focus on effective solutions in fight against child sexual abuse online.
Crucial perspectives from a survivor and a senior analyst at the front line of the fight against child sexual abuse material anchored the EU launch of the Internet Watch Foundation’s 2025 Annual Data & Insights Report.