World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Violence is annually observed across the globe on 18th November to create awareness about the impact of child sexual exploitation, abuse, and violence.
- The day aims to end Child Sexual Exploitation and Violence and bring hope to the survivors
18th November 2023 marks the 2nd observance of the World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Violence.
Background:
i.On 7th November 2022, United Nations General Assembly(UNGA) adopted a resolution A/RES/77/8 and proclaimed the 18th November of every year as the World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Violence.
- The resolution was sponsored by Sierra Leone and Nigeria, and co-sponsored by more than 120 countries.
ii.The day was first observed on 18th November 2022.
Note:
Since 2015, the Council of Europe has been marking 18th November as the European Day on the Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse.
Key Points:
i.The sexual abuse and exploitation of children is a violation of human rights and a public health problem with significant consequences for global health and development.
ii.The day offers a platform for open discussion on the need to prevent and eliminate their stigmatization, promote their healing, affirm their dignity and protect their rights.
iii.The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts, climate change and disasters intensifies the situations that expose children to exploitation, abuse and violence.
POCSO Act, 2012:
i.The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, acknowledges various kind of child sex abuse and provides stringent punishment for the same.
ii.It provides for child friendly procedures at every stage of trial and stipulates mandatory reporting of the crime.
- CHILDLINE “1098”, is the only dedicated helpline for children. This is a service of Ministry of Women and Child Development(MoWCD).
About United Nations (UN):
Secretary-General – António Guterres
Headquarters – New York, United States of America (USA)
Established in – 1945
