Photo: BSS

RAJSHAHI, May 20, 2026 (BSS) - Integrated efforts of all the government and non-government organizations concerned, particularly media, can be the crucial means of protecting boys from sexual abuse and exploitation.
 
There is also a need to expand services and assistance to protect boys from sexual violence. The community can play vital roles online and offline to attain the desired goal in this field. 
 
Media think-tanks and development activists made the observation while addressing a media dialogue organized by Association for Community Development (ACD) at Hotel Warisan in the city today supported by Family for Every Child.

The dialogue was held to mark the Blue Umbrella Day 2026 under the theme, “Break the Silence, Protect Boys and Strengthen Families.”
 
The dialogue focused on preventing sexual violence against boys, strengthening family and community support systems, and promoting greater awareness through responsible media engagement.

Associate Professor Satil Siraj from the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at Rajshahi University (RU) addressed the event as focal person with former RU Additional Registrar Shafi Uddin Ahmed in the chair.

The session was moderated by Subrata Kumar Paul.
 
Speakers emphasized that boys are also victims of sexual violence, but stigma, silence, and harmful gender norms often prevent them from seeking support.

 They highlighted the importance of strengthening child protection systems, creating safe reporting mechanisms, and encouraging open discussions within families and communities.
 
The discussants also stressed the important role of media in raising awareness, challenging harmful stereotypes, and promoting survivor-sensitive reporting practices. 

They called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations, media professionals, and communities to ensure protection and justice for every child.
 
The programme concluded with a collective commitment to continue awareness initiatives and advocacy efforts to build safer and more inclusive environments for children.