Amid rising abuse, we must take better care of our children

We are alarmed by how our children are increasingly becoming victims of physical and sexual abuse despite there being enough laws and policies to protect them. According to the Local Education and Economic Development Organization (LEEDO), child rape cases rose by nearly 75 percent in the first seven months of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Between January and July, 306 girls were raped, up from 175 in the same period of 2024 and already exceeding the year-total of 234, according to Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK). Moreover, there have been many instances of children being murdered or suffering abuse, including physical assault, sexual violence, and corporal punishment.

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Save children from sexual exploitation

The recent rape of a teenage girl in Khagrachhari, the sexual assault of a 7-year-old madrasa student in Cumilla, and the rape of a 12-year-old domestic worker in Gaibandha are just some of the cases reported in the media. The list goes on. The question is: how long must our children grow up in such an unsafe environment?

Children are being abused not only outside but also within their own homes. According to UNICEF, nine out of 10 Bangladeshi children aged 1-14 experience violent discipline at home at least once a month, which is quite troubling. Unfortunately, such harmful practice of parental violence is rarely discussed in our society. Moreover, online abuse has also increased alarmingly with the growing internet usage among children. Incidents of children being exploited to create online content have also emerged in the media. Meanwhile, a 2025 study by SpringerLink found widespread physical abuse among child labourers in rural informal sectors. Additionally, child marriage remains a major driver of both physical and sexual abuse. The situation is disturbing.

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Address causes of child sexual abuse

We, therefore, urge the government to take decisive steps to reduce all forms of abuse and sexual harassment of children. It must ensure safe environments and counselling support in schools, implement effective monitoring to prevent domestic abuse, end child labour by providing families with social protection and alternatives, and prioritise the investigation and speedy trial of child sexual abuse and rape cases. Raising awareness among parents, teachers, and employers is also essential. Equally important is the role of the media in promoting child rights and protecting children's identities while covering incidents of abuse. With online abuse on the rise, cyber laws must also be strengthened, and child-friendly helplines established to prevent further harm. Without such decisive actions, the safety and future of our children will remain at grave risk.