The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in sexual violence against children, particularly girls, in Bangladesh in recent weeks.
The surge in such incidents has occurred under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, drawing attention to the country's failing efforts to protect its most vulnerable citizens.
Rana Flowers, UNICEF Representative to Bangladesh, conveyed her shock and sorrow over the increasing reports of child rape and abuse. She noted that the violence is not only happening in public spaces but also in places meant to provide safety and support, such as educational institutions.
In an official statement released on Sunday, UNICEF highlighted the distressing number of children who have reportedly fallen victim to sexual assault and murder.
According to monitoring by the agency, media reports and local human rights organisations recorded around 50 cases of child rape between January 2025 and March 16.
The gravity of the situation became even more apparent on March 10, when seven children were killed, and six confirmed cases of violence were reported in a single day. These numbers reflect shattered lives, immense trauma for the survivors, and profound grief for their families and communities.
Flowers expressed particular anguish over the tragic death of an eight-year-old girl from Magura, whose case has become a symbol of the country's failure to protect its children. She emphasised that this incident is not isolated but part of a series of harrowing acts of violence against children in Bangladesh.
Criticising the interim government led by Yunus, Flowers stated that these incidents have ignited significant concern across the nation. They have raised pressing questions about the safety and protection of children and adolescents, particularly when those entrusted with their care are involved in the abuse.
She urged the government and all stakeholders to take immediate and decisive actions to strengthen child protection systems and address the rising crisis.
Flowers emphasised that the authorities should ensure swift action and accountability for all reported cases of violence through improved investigation, prosecution, and judicial processes.
Rana Flowers also expressed concern about the broader consequences of the unsafe environment in Bangladesh. She noted that the prevailing insecurity not only perpetuates violence but also fuels practices like child marriage, undermining children's rights and futures.
She stressed that every child has the right to grow up in a safe and protective environment, both at home and in public spaces. She appealed for a more considerate approach towards child survivors, ensuring they are not further traumatised during investigations and legal proceedings.
"Survivors deserve dignity, healing, and justice. It is essential to respect their right to privacy — by authorities, media, law enforcement, the judiciary, and the public — to support their recovery.
For child victims, justice must be swift and uncompromising, ensuring accountability for those responsible," Flowers stated.
UNICEF affirmed its commitment to supporting the interim government in strengthening child protection systems and creating a safer environment for all children in Bangladesh.
The agency called for a collective effort to ensure that children can live without fear, abuse, or violence and grow up in an environment that respects their dignity and rights.
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