UNICEF: Nearly one in three children in Europe and Central Asia are subjected to physical abuse in the family

14.10.2025

Article published on the rus.azattyq.org website

According to a new UNICEF report entitled “Where we live and learn: violence against children in Europe and Central Asia”, nearly one in three children in these regions face physical violence at home, with two-thirds subject to psychological abuse.

The report states that physical violence, ranging from slaps to beatings, is used against more than 30% of children, with up to 69% subjected to psychological abuse: threats, humiliation and insults.

“Violence affects the lives of too many children, often at the hands of those who are supposed to protect them”, said UNICEF’s Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, Regina De Dominicis. “Although banning corporal punishment is an important step, Governments must invest in educating parents and developing child protection systems”.

Despite more than 90% of parents recognising that violence is unacceptable, many continue to use it. UNICEF states that children who experience physical or psychological abuse are more likely to suffer from mental health disorders, academic problems and aggression as adults, which perpetuates the “vicious cycle of violence”.

Today, corporal punishment is outlawed in 38 of the 55 countries in the regions but UNICEF stresses the need not only of enshrining the ban in law, but also to provide parents with the necessary support and education.

The organisation also says that ending violence against children is a commitment which is included in the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Sustainable Development Goals for 2030.

Source: https://rus.azattyq.org/a/33559302.html