Vulnerability of Internally Displaced Children to Sexual Abuse During Climate-Change-Related Disasters in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa

A Social Work Perspective

Abstract

The increasing frequency, intensity and severity of weather-related disasters across the globe, including South Africa, has profound impacts on the affected communities, forcing them into internal displacement. These disaster-induced displacements have raised significant concerns regarding the safety and well-being of children, as they are the most vulnerable group during such events. Grounded within the Ecological Systems theory, which posits that children’s exposure to abuse and exploitation can be explained by a complex interplay among five systems, this study discussed how the micro, meso, exo, macro and chrono systems contribute to children’s vulnerability. This study aimed at exploring the vulnerabilities of internally displaced children to sexual abuse, highlighting the factors that heighten risks. Secondary sources were used to collect data for the study, which was then analysed using thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that the vulnerabilities of internally displaced children to child sexual abuse and exploitation within the Eastern Cape province in South Africa are driven by the disruption of family and community structures, poor living conditions in the temporary shelters, breakdown of child protection systems and economic instability. The study emphasised the need for social workers to be proactive in establishing and implementing measures to safeguard internally displaced children and ultimately reduce their vulnerability to child sexual abuse and exploitation.