CSE Institute

The Institute to Address Commercial Sexual Exploitation, also known as the CSE Institute, is a project of Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law. Founded in 2014, it works to improve responses to commercial sexual exploitation by supporting survivors, promoting accountability, and encouraging collaboration across disciplines. Its mission includes educating and providing technical assistance to people and organizations responding to exploitation in Pennsylvania, across the United States, and internationally.

The Institute offers direct legal services and develops practical resources, including a Pennsylvania legal guide to vacatur motions, which explains relevant law and offers guidance on trauma-informed, survivor-centered representation. Its work also includes policy and legislative reform, scholarship, training and education, and an annual symposium. The Institute publishes annual reports and shares news and newsletters to inform the public and professional community. Survivor experiences help shape its policies and best practices, with an emphasis on dignity, compassion, and respect. Through its resources and programs, the CSE Institute equips policymakers and community members with knowledge to strengthen legal-system responses to commercial sexual exploitation.