A concerning reality has been uncovered in the initial results of the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2025, a collaborative effort between the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) and UNICEF. The data revealed that a significant 86 percent of children aged 1–14 in Bangladesh underwent physical punishment in the month leading up to the survey. This issue is not trivial; it represents a nationwide crisis.
Despite a directive issued by the Ministry of Education in 2011 prohibiting corporal punishment in schools, children are still being subjected to physical harm by teachers. The use of corporal punishment extends beyond educational institutions to homes, organizations, and workplaces with minimal accountability. While occasional media coverage sheds light on appalling incidents of violence against child domestic workers and students, the majority of abuse remains concealed. Corporal punishment encompasses more than just visible injuries; it includes humiliation, verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, and ridicule that leave lasting emotional scars.
The prevalent social acceptance of corporal punishment highlights the normalization of violence in child-rearing practices. This acceptance reinforces children’s subordinate position in society and sets the stage for further forms of abuse.
A 2021 report titled “Corporal Punishment of Children: Summary of Research on Its Impact and Associations,” compiled by the Global Partnership to End Violence Against Children, reviewed over 300 studies linking punishment to various negative outcomes. Notably, none of the studies identified any advantages to corporal punishment. It was found to be an ineffective disciplinary method, as children comply out of fear rather than genuine understanding.
Another report, “Corporal Punishment of Children: the public health impact,” released by the World Health Organization in 2025, highlighted that over half of all children under 18 globally experience corporal punishment annually. Data from 58 countries indicated that 17 percent of children who faced corporal punishment in the past month endured severe forms, such as blows to the head, face, or ears, or repeated harsh hits. Studies across 49 low and middle-income countries revealed that children subjected to corporal punishment were 24 percent less likely to meet developmental milestones compared to their non-punished peers.
The physiological impact of corporal punishment triggers hormonal stress responses that can lead to structural and functional changes in the brain. This can result in heightened anxiety, depression, diminished self-esteem, and increased risks of antisocial behavior or substance abuse in adulthood. The harm inflicted under the guise of discipline is significant, measurable, and enduring.
Research also indicates a concerning trend: adults often underestimate the force used when disciplining children, leading to unintended escalation into violence.
International human rights standards unequivocally advocate for the prohibition and elimination of all forms of corporal punishment against children in every setting, including homes, schools, institutions, and the justice system.
Despite approximately 70 countries globally having outlawed corporal punishment in all settings, Bangladesh has yet to take this step. This omission reflects a critical gap in the country’s legal framework. The disparity where hitting an adult constitutes a crime but striking a child is tolerated underscores the discriminatory nature of existing laws. Children, due to their age and dependency, are denied equal protection under the law, necessitating urgent change. As a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, Bangladesh bears both a legal and moral obligation to act.
The common argument that “I was hit as a child, and I turned out fine” fails to acknowledge that surviving harmful experiences does not justify their continuation. Building resilience should not serve as a rationale for perpetuating harm.
While stress, anger, or frustration may lead adults to resort to physical discipline, these emotions should never serve as justification for hitting children. By investing in public education and awareness initiatives, parents and teachers can learn constructive and respectful methods to guide children’s behavior without resorting to violence.
Political leaders often hesitate to enact laws banning corporal punishment due to fears of public backlash. However, waiting for public opinion to shift is not a viable approach in addressing this issue. Leadership must take precedence in effecting change. Countries like Sweden, Finland, Germany, New Zealand, Poland, and Romania have witnessed a decline in societal acceptance of corporal punishment following legislative action. By enacting laws, promoting positive parenting, altering social norms, and eradicating violent disciplinary practices in schools, it is possible to shift societal attitudes and individual behaviors.
Legislation sends a resolute message: physical discipline towards children is intolerable under any circumstances. Prohibiting corporal punishment is not about criminalizing parents but safeguarding children and altering societal attitudes. Evidence from countries with such bans shows no surge in prosecutions; instead, these laws serve as potent educational tools, fostering healthier, non-violent relationships between adults and children.
In 2015, all countries committed to SDG target 16.2, pledging to end violence against children by 2030. With less than five years remaining to fulfill these commitments, Bangladesh must take proactive steps to shield
