Child protection: Queen Silvia opens Childhood House in Munich

In Munich, Queen Silvia of Sweden drew attention to the many young victims of sexualized violence. In Germany alone, around one million children and young people are affected, regardless of ethnic or social affiliation, said the 79-year-old in Munich at the inauguration of the Childhood House in the Munich Children’s Center, where young victims of physical and sexual violence get help.

The facility is sponsored by the World Childhood Foundation, which Queen Silvia established around 25 years ago and of which she is the patron. “My dearest wish is that the day will come when the foundation will no longer be needed because our children can grow up free from violence and abuse,” said the 79-year-old.

Unfortunately, the reality is different. According to figures from the World Health Organization (WHO), there are on average one or two affected people in every classroom in Germany. The numbers for physical violence or neglect are even higher.

The house in Munich is the first in Bavaria in the foundation’s network and the ninth nationwide. The children and young people should be able to process their bad experiences in a protected environment. There are also medical, psychological and socio-pedagogical offers of help.

The children would get peace, protection, security and safety, explained Bavaria’s Social Minister Ulrike Scharf (CSU). Their families could also receive therapeutic care here. The houses are also available to the investigating authorities with child-friendly interrogation rooms and video recording options. Rooms for medical examinations are also available.