World Children’s Rights Day, celebrated on 20th November, was an opportunity to review the local situation and define new strategies. To mark the occasion, the Ombudsperson for children, Shirin Aumeeruddy Cziffra, launched a national campaign to protect children from violence.

The Child Development Unit has recorded some 4 245 cases of sexual abuse on children between 2000 and 2004 and, 2052 cases just from January to July 2004. These statistics look alarming but are nothing compared to the distress that can be read on abused children’s faces.

The ministry of Women, Children’s rights and Family welfare has already taken initiatives with the collaboration of volunteers. The Child Protection Unit caters for children suffering from abuse or violence at home. Likewise, Shalom is a shelter where children can find food, medicine and, above all, care and attention.

These initiatives have helped a certain number of children to exorcise traumatising experiences such as sexual abuse by a stepfather or alcoholic father.

As a result – and although statistics are still staggering – a greater number of children denounce parents or relatives for such crimes. There may be an impression that there’s more violence today but it’s not the case: what used to be hidden in the past is now known by the public and the authorities.

However, there are still children who refuse to go to the police or talk about their problems. Authorities have made efforts but there’s still a lack of skilled staff. The Ombudsperson has suggested more Child Protection Units. Shirin Aumeeruddy is also committed to meeting all stakeholders to set up a strategy of prevention and protection by next year.

She’s already working with the ministry on the elaboration of a Child Act to encompass all children’s rights. Moreover, she recommends that the attacker shouldn’t have any contact with his/her victim if he/she is freed on bail and should have counselling to know the reasons of such abuse and prevent him/her from committing other offences.

Until these projects become reality, the Ombusperson doesn’t intend to wait and see. Posters with “Farewell Violence” on them and her office telephone number have been printed and will be distributed in every school.