Youth speak up about violence during COVID-19
21% of adolescents in Latin America and the Caribbean report more arguments at home during quarantine.
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A quick survey recently carried out by UNICEF shows that thousands of young people in Latin America and the Caribbean believe that tensions at home have increased because of COVID-19.
Here we present some results.
Opinions were collected through U-Report, UNICEF's secure, free and confidential mobile empowerment platform that gives young people a voice on the big issues that affect them.
3.932 adolescents and youth, 13- 29 years, from 5 countries in the region participated in this project.
"Don't be afraid to call an emergency number, as discrimination or violence can be the beginning of a chain of abuse that affects integrity."
ꟷ Christian, 15-year-old, Bolivia.
"Expanding support platforms and thus facilitating the reporting of domestic abuse."
ꟷ Juana, 17-years-old, Guatemala.
"Parents should take care of their children and, if they tell them that they have suffered an aggression, they should take it into account and go to the appropriate authorities.
And on the part of the authorities, that they should not neglect their work to put a stop to this violence."ꟷ Marta, 16-years-old, Bolivia.
"Give us more attention and education. It doesn't matter if it's online, but continue to offer us that opportunity."
ꟷ Roberto, 16-years-old, Guatemala.
"We could help young people with a digital approach; we could use applications, videos, tests and this kind of material. Also, we should prioritize our mental health, since we are going through terrible times in which we become more vulnerable."
ꟷ Lidia, 16-years-old, Honduras.
"Providing young people with specialized psychological support. These days even I, as a teenager, am afraid of what the future holds."
ꟷ Roxana, 16-years-old, Guatemala.
"Seeking help from a specialist or calling the help lines. In case we are unable, we can ask for help from a trusted adult such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc."
ꟷ José, 16-years-old, México.
COVID-19 has spread to all 36 countries and territories in Latin American and the Caribbean, upending the lives of children and their families.
Opinions and feedback shared through U-Report helps UNICEF and partners pinpoint gaps in knowledge and information and offers insights on perceptions around the virus.
U-Report also helps track and tackle misinformation, ultimately helping to refine and improve actions to keep people safe and healthy by engaging with young people and communities.
Worldwide, since the pandemic was declared, U-Report has evolved into a vital platform in the fight against the virus, sharing scientific facts through SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger and Viber.
As a result, U-Reporter numbers have surged to over 10.5 million globally, with new and existing users across 68 countries including refugees, migrants and other vulnerable groups.
Young people can take simple actions to raise awareness, prevent misinformation and promote community spirit and support.
By sending the word ‘Action’ to U-Report Global Facebook, WhatsApp or Viber channels they can play an active part in fighting COVID-19.
Here’s how to join:
- On WhatsApp: Send “Action” to +66 80 024 9442.
- On Facebook Messenger: Send ‘Action’ using Facebook Messenger at http://m.me/UReportGlobal
- On Viber: Follow the ‘U-Report’ Public Account (Go to Discover). Send the message ‘Action’