Yesterday marked the opening of the 1st Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children, a historic gathering of government officials, policy experts, activists and organizations committed to ending violence against children.
Hosted in a spirit of collaboration, the conference set an ambitious tone – building a world where no child faces violence and where support systems are not only in place but thrive as lifelines for children and young people. As advocates for the rights and protection of children worldwide, at Child Helpline International we’re deeply moved to see this collective dedication. The day’s discussions underscored an important theme: child helplines are an indispensable part of the solution.
A child helpline is often the first line of defence in the fight against violence. It’s a safe space for children and young people to turn to when they feel alone, fearful or unheard.
Thursday’s sessions repeatedly highlighted how child helplines bridge a critical gap, offering children access to help, guidance and hope. With over 6 million contacts from children and young people each year, child helplines play an invaluable role in addressing various forms of violence, from physical abuse to neglect, exploitation and online bullying.
Throughout the day, speakers emphasized how child helplines are so much more than just emergency hotlines. They are comprehensive support systems, providing children with counseling, legal aid and a platform to report abuse. They can also connect children with social workers, law enforcement and shelters.
Child helplines are also preventative. By helping children and young people voice their experiences early on, they can prevent situations from escalating.
A crucial point raised during the day’s discussions was the essential nature of child helplines in promoting mental health and wellbeing. Violence against children has far-reaching effects, impacting mental health, academic performance and future opportunities. Child helplines act as early responders, providing comfort and support to children before the trauma has a chance to escalate, often connecting them to mental health services or local support networks.
Despite the essential role child helplines play, they face numerous challenges – especially in terms of funding and resources. In some countries, child helplines operate on limited budgets, often relying on short-term grants or donations that may not cover their long-term needs. Ensuring that every child has access to these lifelines requires sustainable investment and international commitment.
Collaboration was another theme of the day. It’s evident that governments, private sectors and civil society organizations must work together to make child helplines as effective and accessible as possible. The role of digital technology was emphasized, with speakers discussing ways in which to make child helplines more accessible through mobile apps, social media and online chat functions, especially for children and young people in remote or under-served areas.
Moving Forward: Strengthening Our Commitment to Children Everywhere
As we moved into the second day of the conference, there’s an overwhelming sense of urgency but also of hope. Yesterday’s sessions made it clear: child helplines are vital tools in the fight against violence and abuse. But their sustainability and reach hinge on the collective action of every sector represented here. Governments, NGOs, tech companies and communities all have a role to play in making sure these services are there when children need them most.
Patrick and I left Day 1 of the Conference with a renewed commitment to advocate for every child and young person’s right to be safe, heard and protected. The conversations held yesterday reaffirm the power of child helplines – not only as lifesavers but also as agents of change. By investing in and strengthening these services, we can provide children with more than just support in times of crisis. We can give them a voice, a lifeline, and a future free from violence.
Helen Mason
Director of Partnerships & Operations
