ABSTRACT
This chapter examines ritualised abuse resulting from a belief in spirits, black magic and witchcraft drawing, and focuses on the work of Stepping Stones and other NGOs working in the Niger Delta and the emerging knowledge base. It outlines the current situation in the UK, where there has been relatively little research but a number of high profile cases have resulted in policy development, alongside widening the lens to encompass other minority communities in which belief in spirit possession has also been associated with abuse of children and adult women. Witchcraft accusations against children and the physical and psychological abuse which results from them are increasingly recognised as a major issue when analysing and responding to violations of children's rights, with much of the most up-to-date research and commentary focusing on Africa and African diaspora. Children are at the bottom of the social hierarchy, which means that the views, interests and experiences of the child are accorded little relevance.
