| Why in News | November 18 is observed as the World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence, emphasizing awareness, prevention, and support for affected children. |
| Purpose | To raise global awareness about child sexual abuse, promote prevention strategies, and provide healing and support to survivors. |
| Definition | Child Sexual Abuse: Any sexual activity involving minors who cannot provide consent. Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE): Coercion or manipulation of minors into sexual activities in exchange for gifts, money, affection, or other benefits. |
| Global Statistics | - Victims: 1 in 9 girls and 1 in 20 boys experience abuse globally. - Female Victims: 82% of all victims under 18. - 120 million females under 20 have experienced forced sexual contact. - 93% of perpetrators are known to the victim. |
| Child Sexual Abuse in India | - 2022 NCRB Report: - 64,469 CSA cases reported. - 38,444 children raped. - Only 3% conviction rate. - 243,237 cases pending in fast-track courts as of 2023. |
| Legal Framework | POCSO Act, 2012: - Protects children under 18 from sexual offenses. - Gender-neutral law with child-friendly processes. - Punishment: 3-5 years imprisonment and fines. - Mandatory reporting of CSA cases. |
| Impact of Child Sexual Abuse | - Short-term: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep disturbances, aggression. - Long-term: Risk of self-harm, substance abuse, and interpersonal challenges. - Survivors often struggle with emotional and psychological effects. |
| Prevention Strategies | - Educate children on body safety, consent, and good vs. bad touch. - Encourage open communication. - Avoid leaving children with untrusted individuals. - Respect children's boundaries regarding physical contact. |
| Healing | - Early disclosure of abuse reduces long-term psychological impact. - Supportive caregivers and therapy aid in recovery and resilience. |
| History | Declared by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution A/RES/77/8 on November 7, 2022, to address child sexual abuse and exploitation globally. |
