The Speak Up! The project aims to strengthen the capacity of civil society organizations (CSOs) in Bangladesh to protect and promote the digital rights and freedom of expression of children and youth, particularly against online sexual exploitation and abuse. Centering on children and youth aged below 24—including Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC) youth who face greater online risks—the initiative addresses issues of harassment, violence, and misinformation in digital spaces. Implemented by Terre des Hommes Netherlands in partnership with Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), Breaking the Silence, and INCIDIN Bangladesh, and funded by the European Commission, this three-year program operates across Dhaka, Gazipur, Bagerhat, and Satkhira. It equips young people to navigate digital platforms safely, report abuse, counter misinformation, and participate confidently in online and public discourse. Using gender-responsive, child-friendly, and trauma-informed approaches, Speak Up! builds CSOs’ capacity as digital defenders to ensure safer, more inclusive digital environments for all children and youth.
The baseline study aims to collect and analyze data to establish a reference point for project indicators outlined in the logical framework. It gathers disaggregated data by age, gender, and disability to measure progress and impact throughout the project cycle. Specifically, the study will: (1) establish baseline values for outcome indicators, (2) refine indicators for effective progress tracking, and (3) inform the phasing and targeting of interventions. The findings will assess the existing knowledge and resources among children, CSOs, and communities, guiding capacity-building, training, and resource mobilization efforts to empower beneficiaries and strengthen their ability to advocate for their rights and protection.
