Violence against children with disabilities : legislation, policies and programmes in the EU

Children with disabilities face significant barriers to enjoying their fundamental rights. They are often excluded from society, sometimes living in facilities far from their families. They are also denied access to basic services, such as health care and education, and endure stigma and discrimination, as well as sexual, physical and psychological violence. International, European and national law all recognise the right to protection from all forms of violence. But even though protective measures are available, girls and boys with disabilities are more likely than their peers to experience violence, sexual abuse or bullying in schools, at home or in institutions across the European Union; they also often face violence linked to their disability. The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights scrutinised the important but under-reported issue of violence against children with disabilities, carrying out desk research and conducting interviews with knowledgeable stakeholders. This report presents the results of that research. It outlines relevant international and European standards and reviews national legislation and policies addressing violence against children with disabilities. The report also explores the extent and different causes, settings and forms of such violence, and presents measures and initiatives to prevent it.