During a recent visit to Luxembourg, UN Special Representative on Violence against Children, Dr Najat Maalla M'jid, stressed the persistent taboo surrounding violence against children, highlighting the urgency to eradicate it by 2030, as per the UN's goal.

Dr Najat Maalla M'jid underscored the global scale of the issue, noting that there is no nation untouched by violence against children, which she described as a "global pandemic." Unfortunately, such violence often occurs within trusted circles, including families, religious institutions, and sports organisations.

She further lamented the continuing taboo nature of this subject, where children's voices often go unheard or inadequately supported. The normalisation of violence against children is a troubling trend, with Dr Maalla M'jid stating, "It is disturbing. A thousand deaths is normal, a dead child or a child being beaten seems normal."

To usher in change, Dr Maalla M'jid stressed the collective responsibility of society. In particular, she highlighted the multifaceted role of education, law enforcement, the judiciary, healthcare, social protection, and even financial institutions. The economic burden of violence against children is significant, estimated at 8% of global GDP and 5% of national GDP, according to Dr Maalla M'jid.

Transparency in roles and responsibilities is crucial, ensuring that necessary support is available where children and families need it most. While one is still far from the 2030 target, Dr Maalla M'jid remains optimistic, stating "You can always act and there is still time while there is still light in the children's eyes. When that is extinguished, it is too late. And I have seen children who have taken initiatives. They don't wait for the adults anymore."

In her opinion, the biggest challenge at the moment is to restore trust in institutions among children and adolescents.