November 19 is celebrated as ‘World day for prevention of child abuse’. Shouldn’t everyday be a day for prevention of child abuse? After a long tradition of silence, child sexual abuse is now increasingly becoming a topic for public discussion and action.
Child abuse, especially sexual abuse, is a universal problem demanding serious attention. Efficient protection skills and prevention measures are necessary at family, local, national and international level. Myths such as child abuse occurs only among the poor, the victims are mostly girls or children habitually lie about it are being dispelled. However, there is a long way to go. There are two approaches to tackling child sexual abuse: first to heal abused children; and second, to prevent child abuse from happening. Breaking the silence is one of the biggest steps forward towards tackling child sexual abuse.
A study commissioned by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India says that 53% of the children surveyed in India reported one or more forms of sexual abuse. The study concluded that two out of every three children in India are physically abused. The issue of child abuse has been raised in the past by non-governmental organizations, but this study is the first time an attempt has been made by the government to document the scale of the problem. (http://digg.com/d37Fpj)
On the 7th of October, the UNICEF detailed severe child abuse in rich nations. The Progress for Children report estimates that that throughout the course of their childhood, five to ten per cent of girls and up to five per cent of boys suffer penetrative sexual abuse. "Understanding the extent of abuses of children's rights is a first step to building an environment where children are protected and have the opportunity to reach their full potential," said UNICEF Executive Director Ann Veneman.(http://www.karmayog.org/redirect/strred.asp?docId=26330)
Healing child abuse is a difficult but surmountable challenge. It is a long and painful process that requires tremendous efforts, perseverance and support. The right kind of intervention at the right time, reassurance and professional advice will aid the healing process.
Prevention requires every member of society to play a proactive role. In India, to prevent child abuse, it is imperative that the legal system is strengthened. Although India ranks second in child population of the world, there is no separate legislation to deal with offences against children. The laws relating to child sexual abuse are absurd, making it easy for abusers to evade punishment. (http://www.karmayog.org/childsexabuse/childsexabuse_3301.htm)
The organization Tulir in India (http://www.tulir.org/), a centre for the Prevention and Healing of Child Sexual Abuse (CPHCSA), deserves mention here. It is a registered, nongovernmental, non-profit organization committed to working against child sexual abuse. Tulir, in Tamil means the first tender leaves of a plant; leaves following a period of adversity- symbolizing children and the belief in the resilience and resurgence of the human spirit. It inspires faith that efforts of such organizations, increased awareness and collective responsibility of society will quash this silent conspiracy.
Child abuse, especially sexual abuse, is a universal problem demanding serious attention. Efficient protection skills and prevention measures are necessary at family, local, national and international level. Myths such as child abuse occurs only among the poor, the victims are mostly girls or children habitually lie about it are being dispelled. However, there is a long way to go. There are two approaches to tackling child sexual abuse: first to heal abused children; and second, to prevent child abuse from happening. Breaking the silence is one of the biggest steps forward towards tackling child sexual abuse.
A study commissioned by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India says that 53% of the children surveyed in India reported one or more forms of sexual abuse. The study concluded that two out of every three children in India are physically abused. The issue of child abuse has been raised in the past by non-governmental organizations, but this study is the first time an attempt has been made by the government to document the scale of the problem. (http://digg.com/d37Fpj)
On the 7th of October, the UNICEF detailed severe child abuse in rich nations. The Progress for Children report estimates that that throughout the course of their childhood, five to ten per cent of girls and up to five per cent of boys suffer penetrative sexual abuse. "Understanding the extent of abuses of children's rights is a first step to building an environment where children are protected and have the opportunity to reach their full potential," said UNICEF Executive Director Ann Veneman.(http://www.karmayog.org/redirect/strred.asp?docId=26330)
Healing child abuse is a difficult but surmountable challenge. It is a long and painful process that requires tremendous efforts, perseverance and support. The right kind of intervention at the right time, reassurance and professional advice will aid the healing process.
Prevention requires every member of society to play a proactive role. In India, to prevent child abuse, it is imperative that the legal system is strengthened. Although India ranks second in child population of the world, there is no separate legislation to deal with offences against children. The laws relating to child sexual abuse are absurd, making it easy for abusers to evade punishment. (http://www.karmayog.org/childsexabuse/childsexabuse_3301.htm)
The organization Tulir in India (http://www.tulir.org/), a centre for the Prevention and Healing of Child Sexual Abuse (CPHCSA), deserves mention here. It is a registered, nongovernmental, non-profit organization committed to working against child sexual abuse. Tulir, in Tamil means the first tender leaves of a plant; leaves following a period of adversity- symbolizing children and the belief in the resilience and resurgence of the human spirit. It inspires faith that efforts of such organizations, increased awareness and collective responsibility of society will quash this silent conspiracy.
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