As daily lives and communities are upended by COVID-19, concern is mounting that children's exposure to violence may increase. Children with a history of abuse may find themselves even more vulnerable, both at home and online, and may experience more frequent and severe acts of violence. Others may be victimized for the first time.
1.8 billion children live in the 104 countries where violence prevention and response services have been disrupted due to COVID-19 Case management and home visits for children and women at risk of abuse are among the most commonly disrupted services Around two thirds of countries with disruptions reported that at least one type of service had been severely affected; however, 70 per cent of countries reported that mitigation measures had been put into place In times of crisis, governments should prioritize maintaining or adapting critical prevention and response services to protect children from violence, including strengthening child helplines, supporting mental health programmes and making available positive parenting resources. In addition to the critical role of health care workers, social service professionals must also be acknowledged as an essential part of the COVID-19 response, thereby recognizing these unsung heroes of the crisis and the vital support they provide to children and families. Please share this email with your networks as appropriate. Mark Hereward Associate Director, Data & Analytics Division of Data, Analytics, Planning and Monitoring UNICEF Cornelius Williams Associate Director, Child Protection Programme Division UNICEF |