The representative of "UNICEF" in Lebanon stated in a statement: "The information and reports circulating recently in the media and on social media platforms about severe cases of sexual and physical violence against children are an additional indicator of the increasing manifestations of violence against children in Lebanon."
"UNICEF" warned in its report issued in January 2021 titled "Early Signs of Violence," about "the rise in cases of violence against children and youth who are exposed to physical, emotional, or sexual violence, as families struggle to cope with the worsening economic crisis in the country."
It added: "Nothing justifies violence against children. It is unacceptable to abuse children and perpetrate violence against them."
"UNICEF" called on families, communities, and local authorities to provide safety and well-being for children and youth, urging everyone to break the silence surrounding child abuse and support their right to protection so that every child can live in a safe environment free from violence."
The organization urged "the protection of the privacy of child survivors of violence," emphasizing "the necessity of not publishing information related to these children, including names, images, and videos that contain violent scenes. The dissemination of such materials and information may increase the risk of social stigma on children and their families."
"UNICEF" announced that it "will continue to support children, empower families, and mobilize communities to ensure the protection of all children, adolescents, and women, especially the most vulnerable, from violence, exploitation, abuse, and neglect, in accordance with the national legal and policy framework and international standards."
