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Estimates

According to the agency's estimates, of the 204 million children under the age of 18, 9.6% are sexually exploited, 22.9% are victims of physical abuse and 29.1% have emotional damage. In addition, 700 are murdered each year. The WHO estimates that US $ 581 billion is spent annually on treating victims, but says that "the financial cost is insignificant compared to the cost on people's health." UN studies reveal that children who experience violence are at increased risk of mental illness, drug use, alcohol and obesity when they become adults. They are also more likely to develop chronic illnesses. In a note, the director of the WHO Chronic Diseases Division in Europe, Bente Mikkelson, said that "violence against children is scary and distressing." According to her, "child trauma has a terrible cost, not only for children, whose lives are destroyed, but for the well-being and economy of all countries." Combat The agency says governments are more willing to fight the scourge. At that time, 66% of countries prohibit corporal punishment in all environments. Despite these advances.

WHO says that passing laws is only part of the solution. About 83% of European countries have created a national action plan for this area, but less than half have received the necessary funding. The UN agency has created a package of measures, called Inspire, which highlights seven successful strategies for reducing levels of violence. In addition, the Global Partnership to End Violence against Children shares the example of member states that have been successful in these efforts. SDGs The end of abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence and torture against children is also part of the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs. Bente Mikkelson stated that "with political will, everyone can solve this problem." For the specialist, "all sectors of society can make a difference and make society safer for children."