Law enforcement agencies, child protection experts, and technology leaders from around the world are coming together for the ninth annual Youth, Technology and Virtual Communities (YTVC) conference hosted by Argos, Crime and Intelligence Command at Bond University. This year’s conference theme, ‚Technology: Threats and Opportunities‘, will delve into the pressing issue of technology-facilitated crimes against children, online child exploitation, the impact of social media, and the role of technology in safeguarding children from harm.
With over 460 national and international specialists and practitioners in attendance, the conference will provide a platform for law enforcement, prosecution, academia, and child advocacy and protective service groups to share insights and experiences. Members of the Queensland Police Service (QPS) will present case studies and discuss their work within their respective fields.
The next three days will be filled with discussions on a variety of topics, featuring esteemed speakers such as law enforcement representatives from INTERPOL, Australia, Germany, Switzerland, The United Kingdom, and The United States of America. Additionally, expert psychologists, researchers, and frontline practitioners specializing in research and treatment related to online child exploitation will contribute their knowledge and expertise.
Crime and Intelligence Command Assistant Commissioner Brian Connors emphasized the QPS’s dedication to protecting children and holding perpetrators of these crimes accountable. He highlighted the increasing challenges posed by technology-facilitated crimes against children and the importance of collaboration among global experts to find innovative solutions.
„The work carried out by QPS, child advocacy groups, non-government organizations, and social workers in combating crimes targeting children is commendable,“ Assistant Commissioner Connors stated. „I thank all those involved for their dedication and determination in the fight against these heinous crimes.“
The YTVC conference serves as a crucial platform for sharing best practices, exchanging knowledge, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders committed to safeguarding children in the digital age. By bringing together a diverse range of experts and practitioners, the conference aims to enhance collective efforts in preventing, disrupting, and prosecuting those who perpetrate crimes against children.
As the conference kicks off, attendees can expect engaging discussions, insightful presentations, and valuable networking opportunities that will contribute to the ongoing efforts to protect children from the threats posed by technology. With a shared commitment to the well-being of children, participants at the YTVC conference are poised to make a meaningful impact in the fight against online child exploitation and technology-facilitated crimes.