S Asia seeks to end violence against kids

First the bad news. A child born in South Asia is more likely to be a victim of violence than in any other region across the globe.

First the bad news. A child born in South Asia is more likely to be a victim of violence than in any other region across the globe.

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They face violence at home and outside, may be forced into marriages, get sexually abused or trafficked or work to sustain their families. Between 41 and 88 million of them are witness to violence at home — the highest regional total in the world. Studies corroborate the prevalent scenario.

Here’s the good news. To change figures for better all eight countries of the region , India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka have joined hands to end violence against children by launching a five year work plan.

Called the South Asia Initiative to End Violence against Children, the nations helped by experts and child representatives would coordinate to formulate strategy, enact laws and spread awareness on child violence.

SAIEVAC, based in Kathmandu would work within its mandate and have representatives from international agencies.