In Latvia, 608 people participated in an international survey on childhood sexual violence, and most of them reported serious long-term consequences. The study was conducted by the Finnish organization Protect Children in collaboration with the Dardedze center, reports LSM+.
Almost all respondents (97%) were women; two-thirds first encountered sexual violence before the age of ten. About 40% experienced it between the ages of three and six, and 75% were subjected to violence multiple times.
In 86% of cases, the victims knew the perpetrator, and 41% lived in the same household with them. Often, the perpetrator was a parent, stepfather, brother, or half-brother. At the same time, 37% of the perpetrators were under 18 years old.
The survey also shows that 83% of victims face psychological consequences: panic attacks, depression, difficulties in building relationships, and sexual dysfunction.
The Dardedze center emphasizes that most victims begin to speak about what happened only years later, so it is important to inform the public about the available help. Victims can reach out by calling the support line 116006 or visiting the website cietusajiem.lv. The survey organizers hope that its results will help improve prevention measures and support systems in Latvia.
