David Beckham has shared a powerful message about ending violence against children in a new video for UNICEF. The poignant clip sees the father-of-four sitting on a stool with his world-famous tattoos on show, as animated inkings depicting situations faced by children on a daily basis are added to his collection. "Violence against children marks them forever," David tells the camera. "It's wrong. End it."
The animations, which show children facing abuse or violence, make for a stark contrast to David's real tattoos which mark happy milestones in his life – his collection even includes designs created by daughter Harper and son Brooklyn.
David stars in a new campaign video for UNICEF
The footballer has been a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for over ten years, and just last year launched 7: The David Beckham UNICEF Fund in which he made a commitment to helping the world's most vulnerable children.
"When I launched my 7 Fund with UNICEF, I made a commitment to do everything I can to make the world a safer place for children and to speak out on issues that are having a devastating impact on children’s lives," David explained in a statement. "One of those issues is violence. Every five minutes, somewhere in the world, a child dies from violence. Millions more are in danger of physical, emotional and sexual abuse that could destroy their childhoods forever."
The footballer has been a Goodwill Ambassador for the charity for over ten years
As part of his work with the charity, David also took a trip to Cambodia last year where he met with children who had suffered violence and abuse. "Last year I visited Cambodia with UNICEF where I met and listened to children tell me about terrible violence they have experienced," the sports champion recalled. "I was shocked by what I heard and I saw how violence can leave deep and lasting scars. No child should have to endure this.
"Yet in all corners of the world, in their homes, schools and on their streets, children are suffering similar violence. I hope this new project will draw attention to this urgent issue and inspire action. Violence against children is wrong and together we need to end it."
For more information visit unicef.org.uk
