Project Proposal
Seeking EU Partners: Research & Innovation on Romance Scams and Gendered Digital Violence
Can act as:
Seeking expertise:
We are seeking to join or build a consortium focused on online romance scams as a gendered form of cyber violence. Our aim is to advance research, prevention, and victim support through evidence-based, scalable solutions.
Who We Are
Laurea University of Applied Sciences (Finland) https://www.laurea.fi/en/
One of Finland’s leading universities of applied sciences, Laurea brings extensive experience in coordinating EU-funded projects and developing innovative pedagogical solutions. Our approach is rooted in co-development with social sector professionals and victim support organizations, ensuring that project outcomes are practical, relevant, and sustainable.
SOSPED Foundation (Finland) https://en.sosped.fi/
The only Finnish NGO offering targeted peer support and professional tools for romance scam victims. SOSPED leads the development of psychosocial support approaches, contributes to MOOC content, and coordinates communications and sustainability planning to ensure lasting impact.
Our Research Focus
We study romance scams as a form of organized cybercrime that exploits emotional vulnerability. Our work addresses media representations, victim experiences, and systemic gaps in support, applying an intersectional and trauma-informed approach.
What We Offer
• Expertise in qualitative research, romance scams, and victim-informed intervention design
• Proven track record in EU-funded projects and cross-sector collaboration
• Development of innovative prevention tools, including psychoeducational resources, peer support models, and digital resilience strategies
What We Seek
Partners for Horizon Europe, CERV, or similar calls to:
• Co-create prevention and awareness tools
• Develop support structures for victims
• Conduct transnational research on gendered cyber violence
Let’s collaborate to fill critical knowledge gaps and create lasting change in how Europe prevents and responds to romance scams.
Contact:
Riikka Kanervo – [email protected]
Maria Normann – [email protected]
Helmi Korhonen – [email protected]