Violence against children includes all forms of violence against people under 18 years old, whether perpetrated by parents or other caregivers, peers, or strangers.
Globally, it is estimated that up to 1 billion children aged 2–17 years, have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional violence or neglect in the past year.
Experiencing violence in childhood impacts lifelong health and well-being.
Target 16.2 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is to “end abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against, and torture of, children”.
Evidence from around the world shows that violence against children can be prevented.
(WHO 2020)
Impact of violence
Violence against children has lifelong impacts on health and well-being of children, families, communities, and nations. Violence against children can:
*Result in death.
*Lead to severe injuries.
*Impair brain development and nervous system development.
*Result in negative coping and health risk behaviours.
*Lead to unintended pregnancies, problems, and sexually transmitted infections.
Safe Haven -a Ray of Hope continues to advocate against voilence and the need to create a safer world for children.
