Protecting Children From Violence in Madagascar

In Fenerive East, a coastal town in Madagascar, UNICEF-supported havanjaza (children's mentor) and social worker Elia Habanjoky works to keep children safe and end harmful child-rearing practices. Nine out of 10 children in Madagascar experience violent discipline in the form of physical punishment or psychological abuse. But cultural norms are shifting, with support from dedicated community members like Elia. "As havanjaza, we supervise children, we teach them to play and sing, and we also raise awareness," she says. "What is important to me is to protect children from all forms of violence. I myself have benefited from training that I apply in the education of my own children." "We explain to them that today, hitting children is considered a form of violence." UNICEF stands up for the rights of every child, every day, everywhere in Madagascar. Subscribe to UNICEF USA's YouTube Channel for the latest updates. To learn more about UNICEF and UNICEF USA, visit: https://www.unicefusa.org Read our stories about UNICEF in action: https://www.unicefusa.org/stories Follow UNICEF USA here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unicefusa Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/unicefusa.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UNICEF-USA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unicefusa