Lava Korde

News Center – November 18 marks the International Day for the Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence against Children, an observance established by the United Nations to raise global awareness of this sensitive issue. The day emphasizes the importance of community education and renewing international commitment to ending all forms of sexual abuse against children, alongside supporting recovery and rehabilitation efforts for affected children.

Globally, millions of children and young people are exposed to sexual violations and harmful harassment, making them victims of multiple forms of exploitation and violence. This phenomenon is not limited to any one country or culture but affects all societies, demanding collective action from governments, institutions, and individuals. Addressing these violations requires raising awareness, providing a safe environment that protects children’s rights, and ensuring a dignified life free from fear and exploitation.

Lifelong Physical and Psychological Consequences

Children—especially girls—face increasing risks of sexual harassment, abuse, and violence, both in real life and online. These threats intensify during armed conflicts, where women are systematically targeted with sexual violence and their bodies exploited as weapons of war. Girls are not spared from this fate; they too are targeted and exposed to grave dangers. This painful reality reflects the extreme vulnerability of children in such contexts and calls for an urgent, comprehensive response to protect them and ensure their rights in a safe, violence-free environment.

Amid overlapping global crises—from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, armed conflicts, and climate change to natural disasters—the conditions exposing children to harassment, abuse, and violence are worsening. This is largely due to the absence of effective policies addressing the root causes of these crises, such as deepening poverty, rising social inequality, and the collapse of systems built on justice and equality.

Children who fall victim to these crimes—or even those who survive them—may suffer long-term psychological, physical, and sexual consequences that negatively affect their development and well-being. In some cases, these violations reach the level of torture or cruel, inhumane treatment, creating an urgent need to protect them and guarantee their rights in a stable and safe environment.

Many victims and survivors of sexual abuse do not disclose what they have experienced, nor do they seek justice, treatment, or support due to feelings of shame and fear of social stigma. For many, these traumatic experiences leave deep scars that affect their physical, mental, and sexual health, and may negatively shape the course of their entire lives. This imposed silence not only deepens victims’ suffering but also hinders protection and accountability efforts, making it essential to break the silence and provide a safe, supportive environment that encourages disclosure and seeking help.

The Family as the First Line of Defense… How Do We Protect Our Children?

Sexual abuse of children is a serious and widespread issue, and in many cases, the perpetrator is a familiar or close individual within the family. While all children are at risk, those living in unstable family environments or lacking a secure, trusting relationship with their caregivers are even more vulnerable—especially when they have no one they trust to confide in about their feelings or experiences.

Children of all ages may experience this form of abuse, and its psychological and physical effects can be severe, impacting their development, well-being, and leaving deep scars that may last a lifetime. Protecting children from such violations requires supportive environments, community awareness, and effective responses that prioritize their safety and best interests.

Setting aside dedicated time for children and engaging them in meaningful conversations strengthens their sense of security and trust. When children feel free to speak openly in any situation, they become more capable of expressing themselves and making decisions that protect them from harm. This kind of support builds their confidence and helps them develop resilience to face challenges.

From a young age, children should be taught the correct names of body parts using scientific terms—including private parts—to prevent feelings of shame later in life. As they grow older, caregivers should explain the basic functions of these body parts in simple, age-appropriate ways. This helps children understand their bodies naturally and encourages self-expression with confidence.

Before the age of three, children should be taught that certain parts of their bodies should not be touched or viewed by others, and these messages should be repeated regularly to reinforce their understanding. This strengthens their sense of safety and encourages them to speak up if they ever feel uncomfortable. Children must also learn to recognize inappropriate behavior from both adults and other children, so they can protect themselves and respond wisely.

They should be taught that their bodies belong to them alone, and that no one has the right to touch or harm them without consent. They must also know that it is okay to say “no” to anything that makes them uncomfortable. As they grow older, children should learn how to care for their personal needs—such as hygiene, changing clothes, and using the bathroom independently.

From an early age, children must learn that there are no secrets between them and their parents. Anything they experience can and should be shared. Creating a healthy home environment that allows open conversations about sensitive topics—including sexual health—helps raise awareness and protects children from harmful behaviors.

It is important to monitor the child’s daily activities, get to know the people around them, and avoid leaving them in unfamiliar or untrusted places. Care should be taken when choosing a caregiver, ensuring this person is trustworthy, since the child will spend significant time with them. Pay attention to anyone who approaches your child in an uncomfortable way or tries to take them alone, and teach your child to recognize inappropriate actions. Likewise, any physical or emotional changes—no matter how small—should be taken seriously and discussed gently and attentively.

Every child deserves to grow up in a safe environment filled with protection and reassurance. Parents and caregivers must remain vigilant in safeguarding children from all forms of sexual abuse. Every child has the right to live a peaceful, dignified childhood—free from fear and harm. Therefore, all possible efforts must be made to ensure their safety through awareness, supervision, and supportive environments that build their confidence and encourage open expression without fear or shame. Protecting children is not optional—it is a human and moral responsibility that everyone must share