Mollyn Nakabea 
[Photo: FILE]
Family members are among those responsible for violence against children, with UNICEF research highlighting the extent of abuse taking place within homes.
The research found that while 80 percent of children aged one to 14 have experienced some form of violent discipline, one in ten have been subjected to violence by members of their own families.
UNICEF Pacific Deputy Representative Roshni Basu says the findings are deeply concerning and highlight the need to address violence within households.
“It is a data point, but it is a very shocking data point. That you have a family, you have communities, you have a society where behind the scenes every day, this level of violence is ongoing.”
Basu says ending violence against children requires collective action, with families, churches, schools and law enforcement working together.
She says the recently launched National Action Plan provides a framework for different sectors to work together to protect children.
The five-year National Action Plan for Violence against Children will also strengthen safe reporting channels for children, including access to the toll-free helpline.
