Families form the first line of defence for children; the further away children are from their families, the more vulnerable they are to risk. Children separated from their families, both those living or working on the streets and those in institutions, are more likely to be marginalized, abused and live in poverty in adulthood. Those living on the streets are left unprotected against violence and exploitation. They are also at greater risk of contracting HIV. Children in institutional care, while ostensibly protected from the most obvious protection abuses, are segregated from one another according to age and sex and from other people in their communities. This inhibits the development of vital social skills as well as community support and interaction.

The fight against poverty stands a good chance only when children are freed from exploitation, violence and abuse. Unfortunately there is no quick-fix solution: a child cannot be immunized against abuse. But there is something that can be done. We can begin by ensuring that all children live in a strong protective environment.