Global Report

The Role of Child Helplines in Ending Domestic Violence Against Children in the EU - Child Helpline International 2025 Report

This report brings together annual data submitted by child helplines and findings from a dedicated consultation with child helplines from 16 EU Member States.

Position Paper and Child Helpline Data – December 2025 Domestic violence remains one of the most persistent and under-detected forms of violence affecting children across the European Union (EU). This report brings together annual data submitted by child helplines and findings from a dedicated consultation with child helplines from 16 EU Member States. Every year, thousands of children turn to child helplines as the first safe and confidential place to disclose abuse happening in their homes. Together, the annual data and consultation findings provide a detailed picture of the scale, nature and impact of domestic violence on children, and the systemic gaps that continue to place them at risk.

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Global Report Date:

September 3, 2025

Region:

Global

Topics:

The Role of Child Helplines in Ending Domestic Violence Against Children in the EU

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Research Objectives:

Key Recommendations

Establish EU-wide minimum standards Introduce consistent standards for reporting, referral and follow-up in domestic violence cases to ensure coordinated and timely responses across all Member States.

Strengthen legal and policy frameworks Fully prohibit corporal punishment and formally recognize emotional and psychological violence as forms of harm requiring protection and intervention.

Improve inter-agency coordination and capacity Enhance collaboration and resourcing across police, child protection, social services and mental health systems to reduce delays and ensure effective follow-up for children at risk.

Ensure sustainable funding for 116 111 child helplines Provide long-term investment aligned with the Core Quality Standards for Child Helplines, including support for text-based services and robust, high-quality data systems.

Harmonize national data systems Develop stronger, comparable national data frameworks and integrate child helpline data into national and EU-level monitoring mechanisms.