Shakira has asked the press for privacy after facing a “difficult year” with her children.

This comes almost a year after the singer announced her split with Barcelona defender Gerard Pique.

In a social media post, Shakira spoke about the “changes” in her life and the impact it has had on her children.

The Instagram post, which drew over one million likes and over 43,000 comments, said: “Dear friends, journalists and media.

“At this moment of changes in my life as a public figure, it is understandable that there is a permanent curiosity from the press around me and my family.

“Yet my children, Milan and Sasha have lived a very difficult year, suffering an incessant siege and relentless pursuit by paparazzi and various media in Barcelona.

“As they begin a new phase in their lives, I urge the media on behalf of my children to please respect their right to privacy.”

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Concerned about the safety of her children Milan, aged nine, and Sasha, aged seven, the singer asked photographers and journalists to “refrain” from following them.

“I ask you to refrain from following them to the exit or entrance of the school, wait for them at the door of our house, or chase them to their extracurricular activities and games as it has happened every day in Barcelona in order to obtain photographs or better ratings.

“I trust that journalists and photographers are sensitive to the situation facing Milan and Sasha and can behave in the most humane way possible with them, given that this is the health and physical and emotional integrity of two under eight and 10 years just wishing they could go out on the street, and attend school feeling safe and having the peace of mind not being chased or subjected to constant surveillance of cameras.”

The post continued: “I extend this petition no longer as an artist, but as a mother who wants to protect and care for the psychological and emotional wellbeing of her children so that they can live a healthy and happy life, as every child deserves.

“Thank you for your understanding and support.”

Read more:
Shakira and Pique announce separation
Shakira takes thinly veiled aim at Pique in new song

The 46-year-old Colombian singer first announced the split between her and the 36-year-old FC Barcelona defender last year.

The pair met shortly before the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and had been together for 11 years.

Announcing their split in a joint statement via their PR agency, they said: “We regret to confirm that we are separating.

“For the wellbeing of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect their privacy.”

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