UN Says Nearly One Million Children Are At Risk Of Direct Violence In Lebanon

 

The UN Children's Fund said that Lebanon's economic crisis has increased child abuse in the country. One child out of two is at risk of violence in Lebanon. Millions of Lebanon children are facing the everyday threats of violence, hunger, and disease.

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.