A year after more than 100 business leaders came together at the WTTC in Rome to recognise child protection as a shared responsibility and commit to making it a non-negotiable standard, the Unlock Futures alliance has launched the Unlock Futures Protecting Children Action Paper, turning that commitment into action.

Convened by The Bicester Collection through its philanthropic programme DO GOOD, and developed in collaboration with the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, ECPAT International and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the initiative brings together business, child protection experts and international organisations around a shared belief that there can be no sustainable development without child protection.

Launched at the WTTC Global Summit in Malta, the Action Paper draws on the first global private-sector survey of its kind.

Research across 25 countries revealed a clear gap between awareness and action. While 70% of businesses surveyed say their industry is aware of the need to protect children, only 40% have formal child protection policies and procedures in place.

Almost half (48%) identify a lack of expertise as the biggest challenge. The findings informed a practical framework focused on accountability, action and collaboration across sectors and supply chains.

While businesses have a critical role in identifying risks and strengthening safeguards, lasting progress also depends on governments. Stronger legislation, effective enforcement and cross-border cooperation are essential, and the initiative calls for closer collaboration between businesses, governments, law enforcement and civil society.

The launch in Malta provides a practical roadmap to strengthen child protection across Travel, Leisure and Entertainment.

Businesses are now being urged to use the Action Paper to strengthen their own practices and work with governments, law enforcement and civil society to build stronger protection for children.

The full Action Paper is available at UnlockFuturesProtectingChildren.com.