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The cycles of violence The relationship between childhood maltreatment and the risk of later becoming a victim or perpetrator of violence Key facts The United Nations Secretary-General’s report on violence against children has heightened awareness in Member States of the victimization of children worldwide. In this context, the WHO Regional Office for Europe has produced a policy briefing on the public health approach to preventing child Maltreatment in the WHO European Region. The interest generated by this document has indicated the need to look at the consequences of child abuse and neglect in more detail, especially in relation to the risk of further victimization and later antisocial behaviour. The present document highlights the recurring nature of the cycles of violence across generations and the evidence-based interventions needed to break the cycle of violence