On August 8-9th, under the AI for Safer Children initiative, the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI), through its Centre for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics, and the Ministry of Interior of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), conducted an online training session for Philippine law enforcement authorities. The event reached over 750 members of the Philippine National Police.
The two-day training focused on integrating AI tools and techniques into investigations of child sexual exploitation and abuse, specifically to support investigators in more efficiently identifying victims and suspects. Attendees benefited from insights offered by experts and demonstrations from technology providers, including representatives from Epieos and Magnet Forensics. Additionally, strategies and experiences were shared by the Women and Children Protection Center of the Philippines Police.
Feedback from the training was overwhelmingly positive. One participant noted: “The selection of speakers was excellent. Each brought a unique perspective on the topic - from ethical considerations to practical applications in law enforcement. They not only enriched the discussion but also provided a deeper understanding of the complexities in AI investigation. Overall, the seminar was a great success, and I left feeling inspired and informed.”
While a variety of technological tools are available to aid law enforcement agencies, their potential remains underutilized due to a lack of awareness, resource constraints, the rapid evolution of AI, and confidentiality regulations.
The AI for Safer Children initiative aims to build such awareness and capabilities through its online platform, the AI for Safer Children Global Hub. This platform provides a key gathering space for law enforcement professionals involved in crimes against children and cybercrime. It offers an extensive catalog of AI tools specifically designed for this type of crime, along with expert guidance on their responsible application in investigating cases of child sexual exploitation and abuse.
Currently, the Global Hub features over 90 AI tools and has engaged more than 940 investigators from 117 countries. It offers specialized training free of charge to Global Hub members. The UNICRI Centre for AI and Robotics is dedicated to sustainably strengthening the capabilities of law enforcement agencies in this vital area.
For more information and to join the Global Hub if you are in law enforcement, please click here.
