An end to violence against children and young people

Violence against children and young people is a widespread problem that often remains hidden. Every year, millions of children suffer from various forms of violence that leave both physical and emotional damage in their wake. This frightening reality demands our immediate action.

The forms of violence are diverse: from bullying in schools to cyberbullying and domestic violence. The psychological effects are also serious and can have a significant impact on the development and social behavior of those affected. These issues are more relevant than ever in the current times, intensified by the coronavirus pandemic.

In this article, we shed light on the various aspects of violence against children and young people, as well as its effects and prevention measures. Together, we can raise awareness of the issue and find ways to protect children and young people.

Putting an end to violence against children and young people

Violence against children and young people is a serious problem that can take many forms. These include sexual violence, psychological violence and the exploitation of children. Educational professionals and teachers play a crucial role. They should be trained and act responsibly to protect children from violence.

Warning signs of violence

• Behavioral abnormalitiesSudden changes in behavior can be an indication of abuse.
• Physical injuries: Bruises or other injuries should be taken seriously and checked.

It is important to carry out a risk assessment in accordance with SGB VIII, §8a if there are signs of violence. Preventive measures can support families in challenging times, such as during a pandemic.

Support for those affected

Children should be encouraged to turn to trusted adults if they have problems. Counseling centers offer anonymous help, which facilitates access. Protection from violence must be a priority to ensure the development of children worldwide. All forms of violence can cause serious psychological trauma. It is important to raise awareness and find sustainable solutions.

A global problem

Violence against children and young people is a global problem that cannot be ignored. An estimated one billion children are affected by physical, sexual or psychological violence. Especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, the issue of domestic violence has been brought into sharper focus. School closures and curfews increased the risk to children.

The support by primary caregivers plays a decisive role in the psychological mental health of children. In emotionally stressful situations, it is important that adults look and listen carefully.

UNICEF is committed to protecting children worldwide and mobilizing people to take a stand against violence. There is an urgent need to raise awareness and address issues such as psychological and emotional trauma.

Important points:

• Forms of violence: physical, sexual, psychological
• support by caregivers is crucial
• Emphasis during the Covid-19 pandemic
• UNICEF fights for child protection globally

It is our collective responsibility to protect children from violence and create a safe environment for their development. Everyone can play a part in breaking the cycle of violence.

Forms of violence against children and young people

Violence against children has many faces. It includes physical abuse, sexual violence, neglect and psychological abuse. Children often experience several forms of violence at the same time. This affects their health and development. Violence often takes place behind closed doors and remains Invisible or unchallenged. Around half of young people worldwide experience violence directly at school and within their families.

Bullying in schools

Bullying in schools is a reality for many pupils. It makes school a dangerous place. Between 20 and 65 percent of children worldwide reported being victims of violence in the last 30 days. Violence at school, whether physical or verbal, severely affects the well-being of students. Fear of such violence should not prevent children from continuing to learn.

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is a serious threat. Around one in three young people has already been a victim of it. Those affected suffer attacks via the internet, especially on social networks, which lead to feelings of helplessness. The forms of cyberbullying range from harassment and verbal abuse to exclusion. All of this has a negative impact on the psychological well-being of the victims. Social media increases the pressure on children and young people.

Domestic violence

Domestic violence is a serious problem. Despite legal bans, thousands of children and young people in Austria are affected every year. 15% of Austrians experienced violence between their parents as children. The coronavirus pandemic has exacerbated this situation, as many children have lost their points of contact, such as teachers. Many do not see light corporal punishment as problematic, which can often lead to trauma and long-term damage.

Physical violence

Physical violence against children is frighteningly diverse. The spectrum ranges from slaps to serious injuries such as burns. This violence can leave permanent physical and psychological damage or even be fatal. Parents' excessive demands and helplessness often lead to such abuse. Physical violence can be prosecuted as it counts as bodily harm.

Emotional and psychological violence

Emotional and psychological violence is often difficult to recognize. It manifests itself in withdrawal of love, devaluation, mockery and threats. Children experience it through fits of rage from caregivers and by witnessing parental violence. Excessive care that conveys powerlessness is also part of this. Such violence has serious traumatic consequences and affects the children's psyche and social behavior.

Important points at a glance:

• Types of violence: Physical, sexual, psychological
• Frequency: Around half of young people worldwide affected
• Hidden problem: Violence often Invisible behind closed doors
• Approaches: Raising awareness and empowering children
• Support: Help from caregivers is crucial

Eliminating violence against children requires collective action. Everyone can help break the cycle and give children a safe future.

The impact of violence on children and young people

Violence against children is a serious problem and can take many forms. These include physical violence, emotional violence and neglect. Many children experience several forms of violence at the same time, which makes the situation even more complicated. As soon as a child experiences violence, whether at home or at school, their social and psychological health impaired. Children who witness violence between their parents or caregivers have a higher risk of experiencing violence themselves. International child protection is important in order to safeguard all children's rights and promote their development.

Physical and psychological health

Violence has a major impact on physical and mental health. health of children. Long-term stress caused by violence can lead to organic damage and impaired brain development. As adults, these people tend to engage in risky behavior and use more drugs. There is also an increase in mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety disorders. Victims of violence tend to pass on the cycle of violence to the next generation.

Long-term consequences for development

The consequences of violence in childhood are often long-lasting and profound. Physical injuries are often direct consequences of violence. There is an increased risk of psychosomatic and physical illnesses in later life. The Covid-19 pandemic has also exacerbated situations, as more children may have experienced domestic violence. When children are exposed to multiple forms of violence, their overall development is severely affected.

Effects on social behavior

Violence in the family can lead to partnership conflicts or separations, which threatens children's social stability. Placement in alternative care also has legal and social consequences for children. Violence often changes individual roles in the family, which influences children's social behavior. Bullying, both offline and online, increases children's social insecurity. Access to social media increases the risk of bullying and sexual exploitation, which has a negative impact on children's social interactions.

A list of types of violence:

• Physical violence
• Mental violence
• Neglect
• Violence by caregivers

It is important to raise awareness of these problems and actively work on solutions to protect children worldwide from all forms of violence.

The role of the corona pandemic

The coronavirus pandemic has exacerbated the situation of violence in many families worldwide. Households already suffering from poverty and existing tensions are particularly affected. The closure of schools and daycare centers has meant that teachers have been unable to detect signs of abuse or conspicuous behavior in children. This has weakened important protective mechanisms. Social workers were also no longer able to carry out home visits due to contact restrictions, which support affected families considerably more difficult.

Increase in violence during the pandemic

The risk of domestic violence increased significantly during the pandemic. Children were at increased risk due to lockdown restrictions. Schools and other shelters were not accessible and teachers were unable to observe any abnormalities. This led to an increase in cases of violence. The media reported that the loss of places of retreat and clear daily structures worsened the overall situation. At the same time, facilities for preventing and combating violence were severely disrupted. This led to an increase in violence, exploitation and abuse of children.

Change in support services

During the lockdown, many affected women did not know what support services were available. Only a few made use of them. Youth welfare offices and advice centers recorded fewer cases of domestic violence against children. At the same time, the number of inquiries to hotlines and online advice centers such as "JugendNotmail" or "Nummer gegen Kummer" rose sharply, which indicates a large dark field. A well-known poster from the 1970s, which was intended to empower women, was later adapted for children in order to convey preventative messages. It is recommended that children turn to trusted adults or special counseling centers in emergency situations. These often offer anonymous advice and support and support.

List of support services:

• Confidential conversations with trusted adults
• Contact with youth welfare offices
• Use of hotlines such as "Nummer gegen Kummer"
• Online counseling via platforms such as "JugendNotmail"

Support for those affected

Preventing violence starts with training parents. They learn about non-violent parenting methods. This leads to a reduction in violence against children. Children and young people affected by violence have the right to legal aid. This enables them to secure their rights as victims. Institutions such as the "möwe child protection centers" offer psychotherapeutic support. This helps to process traumatic experiences.

Important organizations and their work

There are many organizations dedicated to the protection of children. "Die möwe" offers free and anonymous counseling. UNICEF works worldwide to reduce violence against children. They mobilize justice into concrete action. The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child protects children from all forms of violence. The Hazissa association focuses on prevention sexualized violence. They offer educational programs to promote respectful relationships. Counseling centers such as "Nummer gegen Kummer" support children at risk.

Access to counseling centers

There are specialized counselling centres for children who have been victims of violence. Counseling is anonymous. Children do not have to give their name. The emergency number for children is available around the clock on 147. The Ombuds Office for Children and Young People (KiJA) offers support for anyone under the age of 21. It can be contacted on +43 732 77 97 77. Certain professional groups are legally obliged to report cases of child endangerment.

Psychological help and therapy

In shelters, children receive medical and therapeutic support. Traumas are treated there. A community with other victims can give children support. Diagnostics reveal possible consequences of abuse. Therapeutic services promote emotional and social development. Play tests are an important tool here. They help with both diagnosis and recovery. Children also have the right to legal support. This safeguards their rights and entitlements.

Prevention of violence

Violence against children and young people is a major problem worldwide and in our neighborhoods. It is often a structural problem that is passed on unconsciously in families. Preventive work is crucial to recognize and stop all types of violence.

Initiatives and measures to prevention

Prevention measures must be a priority in our communities. In children's clubs and workshops, children learn what types of violence there are. They also learn how to protect themselves. Programs like "Good Parenting" help parents to create a violence-free home. They should understand why corporal punishment is harmful.

It is important to show perpetrators that violence is not acceptable. Legal advice and reporting perpetrators are steps to protect children. State measures such as convictions send a clear signal. In this way, social change can be achieved in the long term.

UNICEF is globally committed to the protection of children. Its programs improve the situation of children, especially with regard to violence and abuse.

Raising awareness in schools and communities

Unfortunately, violence is very common in schools. Between 20 and 65 percent of children worldwide experience physical or verbal violence. Cyberbullying is also a growing problem. The constant connection to social media can make emotional violence a daily occurrence.

Teachers should pay attention to behavioral problems after the Covid-19 pandemic. Children who experience violence need help early on. Raising awareness about children's rights and victim protection has increased awareness since the 1970s. This has led to better protection facilities.

Schools and communities need to take action. They should implement measures to prevent violence and raise awareness. This helps to minimize the long-term impact on affected children.

Overall, it is the responsibility of adults to ensure the protection of children and promote an environment free from violence.

The role of society

Violence against children is a global problem that poses major challenges for society. This violence takes various forms, including physical and psychological violence and neglect. It is estimated that around one billion children and young people are affected by physical, sexual or psychological violence. This shows how urgently social action is needed. The social perception and acceptance of violence, for example through corporal punishment, influence the prevention significantly. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the risk of violence against children has increased further. Social efforts must therefore be stepped up to ensure child protection. Since the 1970s, political and social achievements, such as protective facilities and legal measures, have improved the protection of children in our society.

Political commitment to children's rights

Three out of four children worldwide experience violence, which requires decisive political commitment. Children should have the opportunity to participate socially and politically. The fight against violence and exploitation is a central demand in the context of children's rights. Political initiatives must ensure that all children have access to education, even if they have to work. Combating violence against children is an essential task that requires political measures and social awareness-raising.

The importance of participation and empowerment

Empowerment and self-confidence are crucial for the mental well-being of children and young people. They should know that they are not to blame for injustice they have experienced and that they have the right to seek help. Political achievements and laws have improved the protection of children, which has led to a reduction in sexual violence. The implementation of children's rights and the creation of protection facilities reflect society's duty to provide children with a safe and supportive environment. Awareness-raising programs and training for professionals have increased knowledge about child protection and strengthened the empowerment of children. Over the past 30 years, the enshrinement of child protection in law is proof of society's responsibility to ensure that children are cared for and carefully brought up.

Conclusion

Violence against children and young people is a serious problem that requires worldwide attention. Article 19 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child obliges countries to protect children from all forms of violence and abuse. In Germany, the right to a non-violent upbringing has been enshrined in law for 20 years.

Despite this, a UNICEF study shows that parts of the population still accept violence against children. Awareness of the harmful effects is growing, but many children are still at risk, especially in times of home quarantine and financial insecurity.

The Sustainable Development Goals aim to end abuse and violence against children worldwide by 2030. This plan requires comprehensive action.

Key points:

• Legal framework: Protection from physical and psychological violence.
• Social awareness: The need to change attitudes.
• Risk factors: Home quarantine and financial burdens increase the risk.
• International destinations: End abuse worldwide by 2030.

To improve the situation, it is crucial to promote education and take effective measures to help children and young people Sustainable protect them.

Opportunities for action for individuals and communities

Violence against children and young people is a serious problem that requires decisive action. There are several options for individuals and communities to combat this violence:

1. Show moral courageEveryone can make a difference by not looking away. It is important to intervene and get help if you see violence.
2. Community supportCommunities should create safe spaces where affected children and young people can get help.
3. Offer therapeutic helpAccess to therapy and counseling helps children to process their trauma and strengthens their mental health. health.
4. Education and awarenessWorkshops and training on the various forms of violence, such as sexual violence or psychological injury, raise awareness of the fact that violence is unacceptable.
5. Political commitment: Politicians and authorities should provide sufficient resources and treat protection against violence as a top priority.

Only through the interaction of individual and community support can we protect children worldwide from violence and positively influence their development. Together, we can create a future in which violence against children is no longer accepted.

Three out of four children experience violence

Three out of four children worldwide experience violence. This shocking figure shows how widespread this problem is. Around one billion young people are victims of physical, sexual or psychological violence. In Germany, almost half of people believe that a slap on the bottom does not harm a child.

Violence against children takes many forms. These include physical abuse, sexual assault and psychological violence. It is often caregivers who perpetrate this violence. Children between the ages of two and four are particularly affected.

Measures to protect children

• UN Convention on the Rights of the ChildSince 1989, the protection of children has been an important international right.
• Contracting states: Obligated to protect children from all forms of violence.

Types of violence

Type of violence	Description
Physical violence	Physical assaults
Sexual violence	Unintentional, sexually motivated acts
Mental violence	Verbal attacks and bullying

Child protection requires global awareness and action. Everyone can help to end the exploitation and psychological abuse of children.

Violence has many faces

Violence against children has many faces. It includes physical abuse, sexual violence and neglect. Psychological abuse and financial exploitation are also forms of violence. Children can experience several of these types of violence at the same time, which exacerbates the problem.

Violence can be the health and development of children. It often occurs in schools and families. It is a widespread social problem.

Here are the main forms of violence:

• Physical violenceBeatings and physical abuse.
• Mental violence: verbal abuse and mental violence.
• NeglectPoor treatment and lack of care.

It is important to raise awareness of these types of violence. Affected children need our protection and support. This is the only way we can positively influence their development and protect them from further psychological trauma. The United Nations is committed to combating violence worldwide. Together we can help millions of children.