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Consequences of Child Abuse and Trafficking

The growing exploitation of children around the world today is a horrifying fact. The abuse and trafficking of children, in particular, have severe consequences both at individual and community level, undermining the personal development of the children and also bringing serious problems to the entire communities and state security.

Individual Consequences:

  • Physical and sexual abuse;
  • Rape and other physical assault;
  • Physical, sexual and psychological trauma;
  • Risk of death and serious diseases;
  • Health risks, such as sexually transmitted diseases, pelvic inflammatory diseases, hepatitis, tuberculosis and other communicable diseases;
  • Spread of the HIV and AIDS epidemic;
  • Unwanted pregnancies, forced abortions and abortion-related complications;
  • Mental and emotional problems, including nightmares, insomnia and suicidal tendencies;
  • Alcohol and drug abuse and addictions; and even suicide and murder;
  • Illegal status in country of destination;
  • Prosecution/deportation for trafficking-related offences;
  • Difficult reintegration;
  • Stigmatisation upon return.

Community Consequences:

  • Growing influence of criminal organizations;
  • Other criminal activities, including money laundering, drug trafficking, weapons trade, etc;
  • Corruption among the government offices;
  • Increase in irregular migration;
  • Problems of national security;
  • Declining public confidence.