World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence 2024

World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence Observed on November 18, this day emphasizes raising awareness about the widespread and devastating issue of child sexual abuse and violence. It aims to promote global action to prevent abuse, provide healing, and uphold the rights and dignity of affected children.

Understanding Child Sexual Abuse

Child sexual abuse refers to any sexual activity involving a minor where consent cannot be given. It is an alarming issue, with one in nine girls and one in 20 boys globally experiencing abuse before the age of 18. A staggering 82% of victims are female.

Sexual abuse can take various forms, including physical contact, exposure to pornographic material, and exploitation through technology. Often, the perpetrators are trusted individuals within the child’s circle, making it more challenging to identify and report abuse.

The Impact of Child Sexual Abuse

Child sexual abuse leaves long-lasting scars, affecting victims’ mental, physical, and emotional health:

• Psychological Effects: Victims often suffer from anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Behavioral Changes: Sleep disturbances, aggression, and academic decline are common.
• Long-Term Consequences: Survivors face risks of self-harm, substance abuse, and interpersonal relationship challenges in adulthood.

Recognizing Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) involves manipulation or coercion of minors into sexual activities in exchange for items like gifts, money, or affection. A notable aspect of CSE is grooming, where abusers build trust with victims to facilitate exploitation.

CSE can occur physically or online, with perpetrators exploiting vulnerabilities and convincing children they are in consensual relationships, masking the abuse.

Global Statistics on Child Sexual Abuse

• 120 million females under 20 globally have experienced forced sexual contact.
• In high and middle-income countries, 8-31% of girls and 3-17% of boys under 18 face sexual violence.
• 93% of abusers are known to the victim, with 34% being family members.

Sexual Violence Against Children in India

In India, child sexual abuse remains significantly under-reported due to societal stigma and lack of awareness.

• 2022 NCRB Report:
  • 64,469 cases of child sexual abuse reported.
  • 38,444 children raped.
  • Only 3% conviction rate for CSA cases.
• As of 2023, 243,237 CSA cases were pending in fast-track courts.

Legal Framework: The POCSO Act, 2012

The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 safeguards children under 18 from sexual assault, harassment, and pornography-related offenses.

• Key Features:
  • Gender-neutral and applies to all children below 18.
  • Child-friendly processes for reporting and trials.
  • Mandatory reporting of abuse cases.
• Punishment:
  • A minimum of three years of imprisonment, extendable to five years, along with a fine.

Implementation: As of October 2023, 758 Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs), including 412 exclusive POCSO courts, were operational in India, with over 200,000 cases resolved.

Healing from Child Sexual Abuse

While recovery is challenging, it is not impossible. Survivors benefit significantly from:

• Disclosure of Abuse: Early reporting reduces long-term psychological issues.
• Supportive Caregivers: Consistent emotional support predicts resilience in children.
• Therapy: Professional intervention addresses trauma and fosters healing.

Preventing Child Sexual Abuse

Prevention requires active involvement from parents, caregivers, and society:

• Educate Children: Teach them about body safety, consent, and the difference between good and bad touch.
• Open Communication: Encourage children to share experiences without fear of judgment or blame.
• Monitor Trust: Avoid leaving children with individuals who are not fully trusted.
• Empower Consent: Respect a child’s refusal to hug or engage with others physically.

The History of the World Day

The United Nations General Assembly recognized the severity of child sexual exploitation and abuse, declaring November 18 as a day of prevention and healing through Resolution A/RES/77/8 on November 7, 2022. This initiative acknowledges the urgent need for:

• Global Awareness: Highlighting the extent of abuse and exploitation.
• Actionable Solutions: Promoting effective measures to protect children and support survivors.

News Summary