Child Sexual Abuse: A Potential Damage to Children

Abstract

Through various conferences, countries have been urged to take full measures to eliminate all forms of exploitation,
abuse, harassment and violence against women, adolescents and girls. The existence of various instruments and institutions
that condemn sexual exploitation notwithstanding, available evidence worldwide indicates that child sexual abuse is not only
widespread but is on the increase. It is on this premise that this paper discusses the prevalence and effects of child sexual
abuse; the disclosure and treatment of victims; and what the international law says about the offenders. It was recommended
among others, that innovative methods of getting the vulnerable group, mainly girls, protected should evolve. It was also
recommended that necessary treatment and rehabilitation protocol should be put in place to erase the social stigma that may
possibly result from reported cases.