Experts raise alarm as violence against children reaches unprecedented levels globally

In a report released on Thursday, Najat Maalla M’Jid, UN special representative of the secretary-general on violence against children, raised serious concerns over the fact that up to a billion children across the globe are vulnerable to different forms of abuse.

Violence against children remains a pervasive issue, she added, emphasising that millions of young lives are victims of physical, sexual and psychological violence both online and offline, including child labour, female genital mutilation, bullying and cyberbullying.

The vulnerability of children to violence is a global issue

The report highlighted that many more children are vulnerable to violence due to “multidimensional poverty”. Half of the children globally are identified as “at high risk” of being affected by climate change. One in 6 young people are living in conflict zones.

The vulnerability of children to violence has become a global issue, transcending borders. “The problem currently is that no country is immune, no child is immune. In all countries, e are finding many forms of violence,” according to M’Jid.

Nearly 400 million children under 5 regularly endure psychological aggression and physical punishment at home. Figures released ahead of International Day of the Girl Child on October 11 suggest the situation the female population globally are in is alarming.

Severe consequences of violence against children

In the report, Najat Maalla M’Jid expressed significant concerns over online child sexual exploitation. Cyberbullying has turned into a significant issue. 15% of children across the globe are reporting victimisation, according to the UN.The document notes the severe consequences of violence against children. It has a long-lasting impact on the young ones’ mental health, leading to increased case of post-traumatic stress disorder, drug addiction and suicide, besides hindered education.