Children with disabilities deserve equal protection

It’s horrifying to think that children with a disability may not be receiving as much attention and protection from abuse than able-bodied children, but that’s what a recent report by UNICEF suggests.

The Report, recently issued by UNICEF, finds that while all children are at risk of being victims of violence, disabled children have significantly increased risk because of stigma, negative traditional beliefs and ignorance. Lack of social support, limited opportunities for education, employment or participation in the community further isolate disabled children and their families, leading to increased levels of stress and hardship. The Report also finds that disabled children are often targeted by abusers, who see them as easy victims.

Child abuse is wrong - full stop.

“Violence against children as a global problem will not be solved unless the world’s millions of disabled children are included in the overall solution,” Groce added. “Nor will any of the Millennium Development goals be met unless this large and most marginalized group of children are fully included and addressed.”

Read the full press release: UNICEF report shows disabled children at serious risk

• Visit UNICEF’s home page