A new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that an estimated 1.2 billion children worldwide are subjected to corporal punishment annually. 

The report highlights that this practice is widespread in both homes and schools, with significant variations by country. 

For example, parental use of corporal punishment in the past month was reported by 77% of parents in Togo, compared to just 30% in Kazakhstan. 

In schools, around 70% of children in Africa and Central America experience corporal punishment, while the rate is about 25% in the Western Pacific.

The WHO report, Corporal punishment of children: the public health impact, states that there is "overwhelming scientific evidence" that corporal punishment offers no benefits and carries multiple risks to a child's health and development. 

These risks include physical injuries, heightened stress, and changes in brain structure. Children exposed to corporal punishment are 24% less likely to be developmentally on track and face increased risks of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues that can persist into adulthood.

The report also notes that certain groups are at higher risk, including children with disabilities and those whose parents have mental health conditions or have also experienced corporal punishment. 

The WHO stresses that banning the practice is not enough; legal measures must be combined with public awareness campaigns and direct support for parents and caregivers to promote positive discipline methods.

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/corporal-punishment-and-health