Options for Reporting Child Abuse in an International Context

If your organization is in the United States or other countries with well-established child abuse reporting laws, then reporting is simple. You report according to your statute, usually when you have a reasonable suspicion of abuse. It may not be pleasant, but it is straightforward. The only proper approach to protect children and for the organization is to make that call.

If the alleged abuse happened in a country where reporting protocol is not established—or you have a multi-jurisdictional nightmare—or abuse that is historic—it may not be clear whether and how to report.

For some guidelines, see my article on international and multi-jurisdictional child abuse reporting guidelines on Religious Law Network.

Featured image: "Boy on a bench"from Freerange Stock.