Elevated risks to child welfare in Hesse reach an apex
In 2024, authorities in various regions have estimated a significant increase in child welfare cases. This 7% rise compared to the previous year brings the total number of potential child or youth endangerment cases to approximately 19,040.
This trend of increasing child welfare cases has persisted for several years. Since 2012, there has been a continuous annual increase in the number of child welfare cases. This upward trajectory is largely linked to rising material deprivation, poverty, violence, and health-related challenges affecting children.
The increase in child welfare cases is reflected in various aspects of the child protection system. For instance, in Turkey, recent statistics reveal thousands of children in institutional care, foster care, adoption, and orphaned status. Specifically, 15,135 children are in institutional care, 5,623 with foster parents, and 7,864 adopted.
The prevalence of online sexual exploitation cases, another aspect of child protection concerns, is estimated at about 5.5% regionally, indicating widespread risks to children's welfare.
The factors contributing to this increase in child welfare cases are multifaceted. Children exposed to bullying, violence, and loss of parents increase demands on child protection systems. Additionally, the ongoing rise in poverty and material deprivation among children since 2012 has exacerbated the problem, as families face higher economic hardships.
The State Statistical Office recently announced a 7% increase in identified cases compared to a year ago, further highlighting the growing concern. It is important to note that this estimated number for 2024 is significantly higher than it was in 2012.
This rise in child welfare cases underscores the need for comprehensive and effective strategies to address the root causes of these issues and ensure the safety and well-being of children worldwide.
- The multifaceted factors contributing to the increase in child welfare cases include factors such as health-related challenges and poverty, which have risen significantly since 2012.
- To address the growing concern of child welfare cases and ensure the health-and-wellness of children worldwide, comprehensive and effective strategies are urgently needed to tackle the root causes of these issues.
