Abstract

This article addresses the critical issue of violence against children, defined as a violation of their rights across interpersonal, community, societal, and global settings, encompassing both physical and psychological actions targeting them or their parents. Globally, WHO estimates that an unacceptably large number of children aged 2–۱۷ years, experience physical, sexual, or emotional violence or neglect yearly. War stands out as a major contributor to the infringement of children’s fundamental human rights. Those in conflict zones undergo traumatic experiences, including the loss of family members, disruptions to social networks, displacement, and the denial of basic needs. The severe deprivation of essential resources and opportunities, coupled with the stress of warfare, poses a grave threat to the emotional and cognitive development of children, increasing the risk of physical and mental illnesses, disabilities, social problems, and intergenerational consequences. The article aims to draw attention to this issue and advocates for the development of appropriate academic and post-academic educational courses and training programs. This will better equip pediatricians and healthcare professionals to effectively combat violence against children in any context.

Introduction

Violence against children, is a global critical issue, which is defined worldwide as a violation of their rights across interpersonal, community, societal, and global settings, encompassing both physical and psychological actions targeting them or their parents.1,2 Globally, WHO estimates that an unacceptably large number of children aged 2–۱۷ years, experience physical, sexual, or emotional violence or neglect yearly.1., 2. War stands out as a major contributor to the infringement of children’s fundamental human rights. Those in conflict zones undergo traumatic experiences, including the loss of family members, disruptions to social networks, displacement, and the denial of basic needs.3 The severe deprivation of essential resources and opportunities, coupled with the stress of warfare, poses a grave threat to the emotional and cognitive development of children, increasing the risk of physical and mental illnesses, disabilities, social problems, and intergenerational consequences.2., 3., 4. The article aims to draw attention to this issue and advocates for the development of appropriate academic and post-academic educational courses and training programs. This will better equip pediatricians and healthcare professionals to effectively combat violence against children in any context.

Conclusion

In the current historic moment, it is crucial for pediatricians and families to provide support to children, mitigating the potential psychological repercussions mentioned earlier. Pediatricians can significantly contribute to ensuring that the children of the future enjoy better opportunities for a normal and enriched childhood. Their role is pivotal, especially in fostering psychological well-being and contributing to the personal growth of children within a community with its own set of rules. Children must cultivate love and respect for others, understanding that “other” does not signify a limitation but rather a treasure for their personal development. Consequently, the child of today can evolve into a better individual tomorrow.