EVEN as Malaysia moves into the recovery phase of the movement-control order against Covid-19, many countries are still struggling with the pandemic.

This unprecedented situation is having an immeasurable impact on the well-being, protection and prospects of children and youth across the globe.

A recent Unicef report revealed that millions of children in Yemen could be pushed to “the brink of starvation” due to huge shortfalls in humanitarian aid funding amid the virus crisis.

In the Aftershocks – A Perfect Storm report, World Vision International noted that up to 85 million more children could experience physical, sexual and emotional violence as isolation measures force them to stay home. Other disturbing finds include:

– An additional 13 million cases of child marriage over the next 10 years due to Covid-19, adding to the 150 million already expected to occur in that period;

– In Bangladesh, beatings by parents or guardians have increased by 42%, and there has been a 40% spike in calls to the child helpline. Approximately 50% of those interviewed said the safety and security of girls is an issue during the virus lockdown.

The findings highlight the potentially devastating impact that may reverberate through vulnerable communities and countries for years to come.

The executive summary of Aftershocks – A Perfect Storm can be read here. – July 2, 2020.

* World Vision International is a children-focused humanitarian organisation.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.