Cooperate with Government in tackling violence against children

Jul 04, 2022 Letters

Dear Editor,

The “Every Child Safe” campaign, recently launched at Buxton, is a very important initiative. In fact, it is an on-going one as it goes back to 2021. Now, it is gathering momentum, as it is expanding both geographically and institutionally. As we all know, abuse against children is global, and it is good to see that the government is doing its part to combat this horrible crime. We should take note that based on evidence garnered from around the world, we are certain that violence against children can be prevented.

First, it must sink into us that experiencing violence in childhood impacts lifelong health and well-being. I point to Target 16.2 of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, where it is succinctly stated that the objective is to “end abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against, and torture of, children.” I remind all that violence against children includes all forms of violence against people under 18 years old, whether perpetrated by parents or other caregivers, peers, romantic partners, or strangers. Globally, it is estimated that up to 1 billion children, aged 2–17, have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional violence or neglect in the past year. So, I repeat that this “Every Child Safe” campaign is most important.

Secondly, I see that the Minister in charge, Vindhya Persaud, is hoping that the initiative will help the public to detect warning signs of child abuse. In this regard, I know that abused children may feel guilty, ashamed or confused, and at time very much afraid of informing anyone, especially if the abuser is a parent, other relative or family friend. I did some reading, and noted that the signs of abuse are quite many, namely: Changes in behaviour, such as aggression, anger, hostility or hyperactivity; Changes in school performance-absence, loss of interest, waning grades, etc.; Depression, anxiety or unusual fears, or a sudden loss of self-confidence; and, lest we forget, self-harm or attempts at suicide. I mean the problem is a big one, and I hope a concerted effort will be made to support the government in tackling the issue.

Thirdly, the ‘hand-on’ and ‘being on the ground’ approach is very commendable. The news reported that Dr. Persaud, along with Deputy Chair of the Child Care & Protection Agency, Levine Gouveia, not just “… hosted a sensitisation session on child safety with children from the school…” but she candidly chatted with the children about verbal and other kinds of abuse.” This is indeed the way to go, as it allows the children a sense of freedom to speak fearlessly and in a confidential manner. So, I do agree that according to the minister, it was a good session with the children. Her plan is to work with parents and members in the community “… to make communities safe, so we have less and less of child abuse.”

I remind the public that in many cases, child abuse is committed by someone the child knows and trusts, often a parent or other relative. So, we all need to watch, and whenever we suspect child abuse, we must instantly report the abuse to the proper authorities.

Yours truly,

H. Singh

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