Child protection from violence, exploitation and abuse

Report by UNICEF and The Body Shop highlights impact of domestic violence on children

© Golin Harris/Ramson

At the launch of the joint report, 'Behind Closed Doors' (left to right): Commissioner Yolanda Jimenez of the NYC Mayor's Office to Combat Domestic Violence, The Body Shop founder Dame Anita Roddick, UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Rima Salah and Executive Director Rita Smith of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

By Kun Li

NEW YORK, 1 August 2006 – At least 275 million children worldwide are exposed to violence in their homes, according to a report released by UNICEF and The Body Shop International today.
 
The global study entitled 'Behind Closed Doors' highlights the devastating and lasting impact on children of living with domestic violence.

It also reveals that one in three women are subjected to sexual or physical abuse, that domestic violence occurs in all regions and across every social sphere, and that children from violent homes are much more likely to be involved in fighting.

© Golin Harris/Ramson

UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Rima Salah (right) talks to Dame Anita Roddick, founder of The Body Shop.

The joint report’s findings are largely based on data from the United Nations Secretary-General’s 'Study on Violence Against Children', which will be released later this year.

Domestic violence

UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Rima Salah and the founder of The Body Shop, Dame Anita Roddick, launched 'Behind Closed Doors' in New York City today.

"Our report shows that some of the biggest victims of domestic violence are the smallest,” Dame Roddick said. “Protecting children should be the absolute concern of everybody who is working to see an end to domestic violence.”

The Body Shop International is helping to take action against domestic violence by launching its 2006 Stop Violence in the Home Campaign, which focuses on children as the forgotten victims.

© Golin Harris/Ramson

Ms. Salah speaks at the launch ceremony.

“When domestic violence occurs – even if a child is not the direct victim – children always suffer the consequences and society ultimately pays the price,” said UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Rima Salah. 

“Because exposure to violence can hurt a child’s learning, health, and overall well-being, it robs that child of his or her chance to fulfil their potential. Multiplied many times over, it robs society,” she added.

Forgotten victims

Dame Roddick said The Body Shop’s staff and customers are really committed to the fight against domestic violence.

“We have posters in our windows; we hold education campaign for our employees – don’t ever underestimate a passionate employee who could become an advocate for the issue. And we will stay with the campaign until everyone finally gets it,” she said.

To date more than $3.7 million has been raised by The Body Shop global campaign Stop Violence in the Home. Initially launched in 2003, the campaign has been rolled out across the world to help victims of domestic violence.