Victimological Measures for Preventing Violent Crimes Against the Sexual Freedom and Sexual Inviolability of Children

Abstract

Abstract. The article presents an in-depth study of victimological measures aimed at preventing violent crimes against children in contemporary conditions marked by significant social, psychological, and security-related risks. The paper emphasizes that crimes against the sexual freedom and sexual inviolability of minors are characterized by a high level of latency, which necessitates a comprehensive prevention programme that takes into account both internal (psychological, behavioural) and external (social, digital, familial) factors influencing the victimization of young and underage children. The author highlights the importance of systematic informational influence on child and youth environments, the development of skills of safe behaviour, and the improvement of awareness among parents, teachers, and social workers regarding early signs of risky behaviour or potential violence. Special attention is paid to targeted preventive measures implemented by police units in cooperation with educational institutions, child protection services, and social support centres. Victimological prevention is presented as a multilevel system that includes primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention, early intervention, and a comprehensive interagency approach. A separate focus is given to the impact of martial law on the increasing victimization of children: forced displacement, the destruction of social ties, temporary residence in unstable conditions, heightened psychological stress, and the significant expansion of children's online presence all create new risks of sexual exploitation. Under wartime conditions, the issues of online grooming, involvement of minors in pornographic content, manipulation of their trust, and the use of digital platforms for contact with potential offenders become particularly acute. The article argues that adapting prevention programmes to these emerging threats is critically important. Special attention is also devoted to the rehabilitation and individual support of children who have already experienced sexual violence. It is emphasized that effective assistance requires an interdisciplinary approach involving psychologists, social workers, educators, and juvenile police officers, as well as ensuring the protection of children's rights within criminal proceedings. The study concludes that the integrated combination of educational, preventive, and rehabilitative measures can significantly reduce the risks of primary and repeated victimization and contribute to the creation of a safe environment for the development and socialization of children.

Keywords: victimology; prevention; violence; children; sexuality; safety; exploitation; war; online; risks; intervention; rehabilitation.