UNICEF Alarmed by Surge in Child Violence in Bangladesh
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Synopsis
The United Nations Children's Agency has raised serious concerns about the increasing incidents of sexual violence against children, particularly girls, in Bangladesh under the interim administration of Muhammad Yunus. UNICEF's representative, Rana Flowers, expressed her horror at the tragic cases that have emerged recently.
Key Takeaways
- UNICEF expresses grave concern over rising child violence.
- Recent incidents include alarming child rape cases.
- Urgent action needed from the interim government.
- Children deserve safety and protection from violence.
- Rana Flowers emphasizes the need for accountability.
Dhaka, March 24 (NationPress) The United Nations Children's Agency has voiced serious alarm regarding the troubling increase in incidents of sexual violence against children, particularly girls, in Bangladesh in recent weeks under the interim leadership of Muhammad Yunus.
UNICEF's Representative to Bangladesh, Rana Flowers, expressed that she is "deeply horrified" by the recent spike in shocking cases of child rape and sexual abuse, including in places that are supposed to safeguard and nurture children, such as educational institutions.
In an official statement released by UNICEF on Sunday, the organization noted that a concerning number of children have reportedly been victims of rape and murder in recent months.
Monitoring by the agency revealed that from January 2025 to March 16, media outlets and local human rights groups documented around 50 cases of child rape.
The situation appears to be escalating -- on March 10 alone, seven children were killed, and six confirmed incidents of violence occurred. These figures are more than mere statistics; they signify broken lives, intense trauma for survivors, and unimaginable sorrow for families and communities.
"Our hearts are especially heavy with the tragic death of an eight-year-old child from Magura a few days ago. Her passing stands as a heartbreaking reminder of how children, particularly girls, are being subjected to severe violations of their fundamental rights and safety. Unfortunately, this young girl's demise is just one of many terrifying acts against children," stated Rana Flowers.
Criticizing the Yunus administration, Flowers remarked that these incidents have raised profound concern throughout the South Asian nation, prompting urgent inquiries about the safety and protection of children and adolescents, particularly in the care of those they trust at home and in schools.
"To foster a society where every child can flourish free from fear and violence, the interim government and all stakeholders must take immediate and effective action to enhance and invest in child protection systems," she emphasized.
"The Interim Government and Law Enforcement should ensure prompt action and accountability for all reported cases of violence against children through improved investigation, prosecution, and judicial processes," she added.
Expressing concern about the lack of safety and security for children in the nation, Rana Flowers highlighted that the unsafe environment perpetuates the ongoing issues of child marriage and other forms of violence.
She stated that every child has the right to grow up in a secure and protective environment both at home and in public areas. Child survivors must be protected from further trauma, particularly during investigations and legal processes.
"Survivors deserve dignity, healing, and justice. It is crucial to honor their right to privacy -- by authorities, media, law enforcement, the judiciary, and the public -- to aid in their recovery. For child victims, justice must be prompt and uncompromising, ensuring accountability for those accountable," Rana Flowers concluded.
The UNICEF representative also affirmed that the agency remains unwavering in its dedication to child rights and protection and is prepared to assist the interim government led by Yunus in fortifying child protection systems to ensure a safer Bangladesh for all children.
