Feb 23 • 09:00 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

Governments must intensify measures to end violence against children

Governments are urged to strengthen efforts to eliminate violence against children, as global targets established in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development are not being met.

Recent discussions emphasize that governments worldwide must intensify their efforts to eradicate violence against children, realizing that current actions are insufficient. The report highlights that we are failing approximately one billion minors regarding their safety, which has broader implications for public health, social protection systems, community resilience, and intergenerational mobility. It points to the failures in adhering to commitments made in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which aimed to create a protective environment for every child.

Despite the ambitious goals set ten years ago, it has become evident that progress is lagging as annually, half of the children globally experience violence. The situation is dire; millions of children experience physical, mental, and emotional abuse, which threatens their development and well-being. The piece underscores the necessity for governments to implement more robust policies and actions to safeguard children's rights, aligning with the Convention on the Rights of the Child to turn these global targets into reality.

The report also suggests that prevention strategies should be a priority, not only to shield children from violence but also to enhance the overall health of society. By investing in children's safety, governments can cultivate healthier communities and contribute to breaking the cycle of violence, exploitation, and neglect. As awareness of the issue rises, it is imperative for leaders to take immediate and comprehensive action, ensuring that children can thrive without fear or abuse in their environments.

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