Angelina Jolie has penned a powerful letter in which she begs for vulnerable children to be protected across the globe amid the coronavirus outbreak.
The Hollywood icon, 44, has written an op-ed in Time magazine that pointed out the fact that kids may be "especially vulnerable" to the pandemic's "secondary" effects.
The activist noted that children are more resistant to its physical symptoms, but are more vulnerable to the other problems caused by the deadly bug.
The mum-of-six wrote: "Isolating a victim from family and friends is a well-known tactic of control by abusers, meaning that the social distancing that is necessary to stop COVID-19 is one that will inadvertently fuel a direct rise in trauma and suffering for vulnerable children."
She added: "Lockdowns and stay at home orders have resulted in job losses and economic insecurity, increasing stress, pressure and uncertainty for many families.
"Stress at home increases the risk of domestic violence."
The humanitarian continued to state her concerns, adding that the pandemic can be more unfortunate for kids as it comes "at a time when children are deprived of the very support networks that help them cope".
She wrote: "[They are removed] from their trusted friends and teachers to after-school sports activities and visits to a beloved relative's house that provide an escape from their abusive environment."
Angelina added that many children rely on their school for meals each day, but also for "a lifeline of opportunity as well as a shield, offering protection...
"From violence, exploitation and other difficult circumstances, including sexual exploitation, forced marriage and child labor and domestic violence."
She continued: "It's not just that children have lost support networks. Lockdown also means fewer adult eyes on their situation.
"In child abuse cases, Child Protective Services are most often called by third parties such as teachers, guidance counselors, after school program coordinators and coaches."
And after pointing out her deep concerns and issues with the current situation, the actress provided clear steps for her readers to take to make sure children around them are safe.
She encouraged people to call family and friends, especially if someone is deemed vulnerable.
The Oscar-winning actress also urged readers to familiarise themselves with red flags of domestic abuse, to be able to spot when someone is suffering pain behind closed doors.
She added: "It is often said that it takes a village to raise a child. It will take an effort by the whole of our country to give children the protection and care they deserve."
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