U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz and former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow announced an international initiative on July 18, 2026, aimed at combating online child exploitation. The initiative seeks to unite government officials, law enforcement, and anti-human trafficking advocates to enhance cooperation against child predators operating across borders. During the announcement, Tebow emphasized that the threat of child exploitation is prevalent in local communities, not just in distant areas. He urged parents to be vigilant about their children's online safety, comparing unprotected internet access to leaving children unsupervised in a dangerous environment.
Waltz highlighted the importance of international collaboration, stating that many countries lack the legal frameworks and resources necessary to address child exploitation effectively. He noted that U.S. agencies and U.N. partners are working to assist these countries in strengthening their capabilities. The initiative also aims to improve victim identification and support for exploited children. Waltz and Tebow's collaboration is designed to enhance cross-border efforts through technology and coordinated investigations.