The UN on Friday said, "One in two children in Lebanon
is at serious risk of physical, emotional, or sexual violence.” Their families
are reportedly struggling to cope with the country’s deepening economic crisis.
The local currency of Lebanon lost 90 per cent of its value in two years.
Child
abuse and exploitation in Lebanon
A new report released by UNICEF (United Nations Children's
Fund) revealed that child abuse and exploitation has increased significantly in
Lebanon as the per cent shot up by 44 per cent over the past year. Children as
young as six are working on farms to earn money. Reportedly, the families
seeking dowries are marrying off young girls. Over 80 per cent of children in
Lebanon are at risk of being forced into child labour or child marriage.
Lebanon’s crisis is also affecting the mental health of
children. Violence against women and girls have also increased recently. The UN
report also highlighted new threats against children in Lebanon like abduction
and indigent families abandoning their small babies in the streets. Many
children are out of school as their families are unable to get a basic
education. The UN said at least one million children in Lebanon are at risk of
direct violence.
Antonio
Guterres to visit Lebanon
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed full support
for the citizens of Lebanon through a video message ahead of his visit to the
Middle Eastern country. He will discuss different ways with the country to help
them overcome its ongoing crisis and promote human rights. He is expected to
reach Lebanon on Sunday.
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