Int’l Children’s Day Observed With About 80,000 Children Victims of Violence Annually

News Desk

Islamabad: Since 2005, at least 104,100 children have been killed or maimed. More than 14,200 children have been subjected to rape and other sexual violence, and more than 14,900 incidents of denial of humanitarian access have been verified, the UNICEF report ‘25 Years of Children and Armed Conflict’ points to alarming data.

In Latin America and the Caribbean region, about 80,000 children die annually from violence that breaks out within the family. Child abuse is now in the spotlight of global attention, and the UN is working hard to help protect children around the world.

With these alarming revelations, the world observed the “International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression” on June 4 (Sunday) across the globe, including Pakistan.

The purpose of observing this day was to recognise and honour the countless children around the world who have suffered as a result of various forms of aggression, including armed conflict, exploitation, physical violence, and psychological trauma.

This day raises awareness about the grave violations of children’s rights and calls for action to protect their well-being. It is an opportunity to acknowledge the pain suffered by children throughout the world who are victims of physical, mental, and emotional abuse.

On August 19, 1982, at its emergency special session on the question of Palestine, the General Assembly, appalled at the great number of innocent Palestinian and Lebanese children victims of Israel’s acts of aggression, decided to commemorate June 4 of each year as the “International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression”.

This day affirms the UN’s commitment to protect the rights of children.

The Global Movement for Children, with leadership from Nelson Mandela and Graca Machel, is an inspiring force for change that involves ordinary people and families worldwide.

The Say Yes for Children campaign, endorsed by more than 94 million people, calls for 10 positive actions to be taken to improve the lives of children.

This day is a time for individuals and organisations all over the world to become aware of the impact of the monstrosity of abuse, in all its forms, against children, and learn from or take part in awareness campaigns centred on protecting children’s rights.

Children are the most vulnerable members of our society, and the impact of aggression on their lives is devastating. Armed conflict, violence, and exploitation rob children of their innocence, disrupt their development, and leave lasting scars on their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. It is our collective responsibility to protect children from aggression and create a world where they can grow, learn, and thrive in safety and security.