A/HRC/28/34 stemmed from social and economic inequalities and educational systems. Poverty, lack of livelihood opportunities and illiteracy remained root causes that compounded the vulnerability of families and children to violence. Delegations pointed to the importance of providing employment opportunities and addressing widespread poverty and underdevelopment. 24. Reference was made to a growing body of scientific evidence demonstrating that exposure to violence and stress, especially at a very young age, provoked irreversible brain damage in children. Delegations referred to the huge costs of violence against children. However, the shortage of reliable data remained a major obstacle to capturing fully the extent of violence against children. 25. Delegations emphasized that strong political commitment was needed, and pointed out the importance of sharing good practices with a view to inspiring actions that strengthen and complement mechanisms set up at the national level. Investing time and resources into eradicating violence against children in all settings was considered essential to create a foundation for a society that protects the most vulnerable. B. Prevention of violence against children 26. Many delegations highlighted the importance of prevention, pointing out that violence could be prevented. To do so, strategies should concentrate on causes rather than consequences, and invest in all contexts in which children live, play and learn. In conjunction with appropriate budgeting, staff should be trained, particularly in education, health and justice. A multisectoral approach was advocated, including exchange of information between those involved in children’s lives, and protocols and guidelines for professionals working with children. Cross-border cooperation was also mentioned as an important tool, particularly in cases concerning issues of transnational child protection. 27. It was noted that effective protection from violence was only possible by taking an integrated approach. In doing so, States should raise awareness, break the silence regarding violence against children and challenge the social norms that justify it. C. Cooperation of family, society and the State 28. Several delegations focused on the role of the family, society and the State in protecting children from violence. They pointed out that a legal ban on violence against children was needed, and that to be able to achieve real implementation, must involve broad segments of society and engage all relevant actors in seeking sustainable change. Changing attitudes of lawmakers, parents, teachers and other adults dealing with children was a key issue. 29. Delegations noted the primary role of the family in the upbringing and development of the child, recalling that the well-being of the child was closely tied to that of the family. The State should, as a matter of priority, provide information and support to families and caregivers in their role of bringing up children. The role of the education system and its ability to shape the minds of young people to their benefit or detriment was also highlighted. Children should not be taught to accept violence as a means of imposing their values and judgements on others. Bullying in schools as a manifestation of peer-to-peer violence was also raised, as was the need for international initiatives to counter it. 30. Many delegations drew attention to the role of the international community in stopping violence against children, and the fact that progress remained scattered and slow was an indictment of the international human rights system. States called upon the Human 8