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 raise awareness about child abuse and violence.
- It aims to prevent abuse, protect children, and support the recovery and healing of survivors.
18th November 2024 marks the 3rd observance of the World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence.
Background:
i.On 7th November 2022, the 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, which 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.
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, is an Indian law to protect children from sexual abuse, exploitation, and harassment
ii.It provides for child-friendly procedures at every stage of trial and stipulates mandatory reporting of the crime.
CHILDLINE 1098 – A phone service that provides emergency care and protection for children in India. This is the service of the Ministry of Women and Child Development(MoWCD).
Key Facts:
i.Around the world, approximately 120 million females below 20 years have experienced various forms of forced sexual contact.
ii.Sexual violence in high and middle income indicates that the prevalence ranges from 8% to 31% among girls and 3% to 17% among boys under the age of 18.
iii.1 in 4 children aged under 5 years live with a mother who is a victim of intimate partner violence.
