Child sexual abuse: the "Stop" helpline tries to prevent offenses.

While emotions remain high following the Lyhanna case, the issue of preventing sexual violence against minors has returned to the forefront of public debate. For the past five years, France has had a still little-known service: the "Stop" helpline, intended for people experiencing sexual attraction to children and wishing to be referred for medical help before acting on their impulses.

Accessible via the number 0806 23 10 63, this service relies on the network of Resource Centers for Professionals Working with Perpetrators of Sexual Violence (CRIAVS). Its objective is to assess situations, support those affected, and refer them to specialized healthcare professionals. According to those in charge of the service, several thousand calls have been recorded since its creation.

A little-known prevention tool

Experts emphasize that callers come from very diverse backgrounds, regardless of age, social class, or professional experience. The service aims to provide a confidential listening space where problematic thoughts or behaviors can be addressed before they lead to a crime.

Professionals emphasize, however, that the protection of minors remains the top priority. When an immediate risk to a child is identified during an interaction, teams can contact the relevant authorities to initiate the necessary measures.

Focus on prevention to protect children

Program leaders believe that prevention is a crucial component of the fight against sexual violence against minors. They argue that early intervention for individuals exhibiting pedophilic tendencies can help reduce the risk of them committing these acts and complement existing victim protection measures.

While cases of child sexual abuse regularly provoke public outrage, several professionals are advocating for greater visibility for this helpline. Their goal is to raise awareness of this prevention tool in order to improve access to care and strengthen the protection of children.