Urges action to end impunity for those responsible for violence against children and women

UNICEF has issued a stark warning regarding the escalating violence against children in Bangladesh, with Representative Rana Flowers expressing profound dismay at the "brutal violence" reported across the nation. The organization highlights a disturbing rise in both brutal and sexual violence against children, emphasizing that these incidents occur in environments where they should be afforded the utmost safety.

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Brutality against children must stop!

Flowers unequivocally stated, "Brutality against children must stop!" She underscored the urgent necessity for robust measures to bolster child protection systems and prevent gender-based violence (GBV) nationwide. A critical point raised is the pervasive "culture of impunity" that shields perpetrators, demanding immediate attention to address gaps in prevention, reporting, institutional safeguarding, and child-friendly justice mechanisms.

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The rise in reports of brutal and sexual violence against women and children across Bangladesh thus far in 2026 underscore the urgent need for immediate action to strengthen child and GBV (Gender-based violence) protection systems and prevention measures nationwide.

UNICEF is also advocating for enhanced psychosocial support for survivors and greater accountability from institutions like schools, workplaces, and communities. The organization stresses that silence fuels violence and implores the public, families, and community members to report any instances of abuse or exploitation through available channels, such as the Child Helpline 1098.

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The culture of impunity enjoyed by perpetrators must end, and the gaps in prevention, reporting, institutional safeguarding, child-friendly police and justice, community protection and social services be addressed.

Furthermore, UNICEF is making a strong appeal to the public, media outlets, and social media users to uphold the dignity of victims and their families. The sharing of photos, videos, or personal details of survivors is condemned as a further act of abuse that exacerbates trauma. Instead of contributing to the survivors' pain, UNICEF urges everyone to raise their voices in demanding stronger protections, improved systems, and an end to impunity for perpetrators, asserting that "Every child has the right to protection everywhere."

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Violence spreads when communities stay silent. UNICEF appeals for children, women, families and community members to report violence, abuse or exploitation through available protection services, including Child Helpline 1098, which provides support and referral services for children in need of assistance.