Gender-based violence against children in emergencies: Save the Children UK’s response

Overview

Violence against children is a global phenomenon. During humanitarian crises, and armed conflict in particular, the potential for gender-based violence (GBV), including sexual exploitation, increases. Children, particularly adolescent girls, are vulnerable. This article traces the impact of an exposé of sexual abuse by humanitarian workers on the wider protection policies and practices of Save the Children UK. The article concludes that awareness of gender discrimination must underpin the implementation of protection policies for all children and their carers. Furthermore, it proposes that comprehensive responses to GBV must be devised, alongside prevention strategies, if children are to be effectively protected.

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