Global status report on violence prevention 2014

Abstract

Violence is ubiquitous. Its diverse forms have destructive consequences and significantly affect the lives of people, families and communities worldwide. Its negative consequences include substance addiction, depression, suicide, school dropout, unemployment and recurrent interpersonal difficulties. Violence affects the lives of millions of people with long-lasting impact. It hampers development and recovery in conflict-ridden countries exacerbating societal divisions, perpetuating poverty, spreading crime and occasionally leading to war.