Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on characteristics, extent, and trends in child maltreatment in 34 Euro-CAN COST Action Countries: a scoping review of the literature

Abstract

Background The COVID-19 pandemic intensified known risk factors for child maltreatment (CM). Yet, globally inconsistent trends were reported. Little is known about CM trends across Europe, given varying surveillance systems. Objective This scoping review systematically examined evidence on CM trends during the pandemic in 34 European countries in the COST Action Euro-CAN network. Participants and Setting. CM (physical, sexual, psychological abuse, neglect, and online harms) across various settings (population, healthcare, social care including NGOs, child protection services, judicial/police). Methods We searched PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, OPENGREY, and Google Scholar (January 2020–November 2024). Eligible studies included primary research and systematic or narrative reviews. Two reviewers independently screened and extracted data. Findings were synthesized narratively by CM type, sector, country, and study design, and reported following the PRISMA-ScR. Results Of 4658 records screened, 87 records were included (72 primary research, 15 reviews). Most studies used quantitative methods (n = 64, 89 %) and reported healthcare and population-based data. Physical abuse was the most frequently reported type (n = 42, 58 %). Results were mixed, showing increase, decrease, or no change in CM. The most consistent signal was an increase in physical abuse identified in French hospital datasets. Qualitative studies highlighted concerns about children's safety during school closures and changes in referral patterns. Conclusion This is the first comprehensive review of CM trends in Europe during the pandemic, covering the longest timeframe. Fragmented evidence reflects heterogeneous definitions, reliance on institutional data and underrepresentation of vulnerable groups. Findings stress for harmonised definitions and resilient surveillance systems.