Spanish innovation aims to tackle child abuse

The innovative poster uses lenticular printing to display two messages simultaneously

Spain can be a brilliantly inventive country at times. Despite its image as a laid-back country steeped in tradition and cloaked in centuries-old practice, it has a streak of modernity running right through its heart.

From its high-speed rail network and stunningly swift toll roads to its sleek architecture, Spain is often at the forefront of innovation…

Nowhere is this more evident than in a recent campaign aimed at tackling child abuse. Created by Spanish organisation the Anar Foundation, their campaign revolves around a poster that uses lenticular printing to display two separate messages.

To an adult (or anybody over a certain height), the poster displays a simple message to help curb child abuse. Viewed from a lower angle, however (that seen by a child), the poster displays a different, secret message containing the line ‘If somebody hurts you, phone us and we’ll help you’, and displays a helpline.

The Anar Foundation believe that an abusive adult with a child in tow would dissuade or discourage a child from reading the poster or calling the number if they saw it. The two messages mean that the child can confidently and anonymously get in touch if they are being abused, without alerting their abuser.

It is an innovative and progressive use of technology, and something that should be applauded. The Spanish might not always get things right, but on this occasion the foundation’s judgment is spot on.