UNICEF expresses deep concern over rising violence against children in Bangladesh

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has expressed deep concern and anger over recent incidents of violence, rape, and killings involving women and children in Bangladesh, saying that children are increasingly becoming unsafe even in places meant to protect them.

In a statement issued on Friday (May 22), UNICEF Representative in Bangladesh Rana Flowers said the brutality against children must stop immediately.

The statement noted reports of a rising number of sexual and brutal violence cases against women and children across the country since early 2026, underscoring the urgent need to strengthen national child protection and gender-based violence prevention systems.

Rana Flowers called for an end to what she described as a culture of impunity, stressing the need to strengthen prevention mechanisms, reporting systems, institutional protection structures, child-friendly policing and justice services, as well as social support systems.

She further said violence often spreads when society remains silent, urging immediate reporting of abuse, exploitation or violence through child protection services, including the national helpline 1098.

UNICEF also highlighted the importance of psychological and social support for survivors and their families, alongside stronger accountability in schools, madrasas, workplaces, communities and care institutions.

The statement emphasized protecting the dignity and privacy of victims, warning that sharing images, videos, or identities of survivors constitutes a form of re-victimisation. It urged media outlets and social media users not to circulate such content, as it deepens trauma for victims and their families.

Reiterating its appeal, UNICEF said every child has the right to safety in all spaces — including homes, schools, and public areas — and called for collective action to ensure justice for perpetrators and stronger protection systems for children and women.