This convention aims to prevent the sexual exploitation and sexual

abuse of children, protect child victims of sexual offences and

prosecute perpetrators. With an emphasis on respecting the rights

of children and keeping their best interests in the forefront, the

convention covers preventive measures; criminal offences, including

several entirely new offences, such as "child grooming"; protective

measures and assistance to child victims and their families; "childfriendly"

procedures for investigation and prosecution which are

adapted to children's special needs; intervention programmes or

measures for child sex offenders; recording and storing of data on

convicted sex offenders; international co-operation and a monitoring

mechanism.