Human Rights Commission of Maldives (HRCM) has urged the parliament to proceed with the bill on Children's Rights which seeks to improve and amend the regulations in child protection and welfare.
The bill has been drafted but has not progressed onward after that.
HRCM had released the statement on the day commemorating the international day for the prevention of child abuse, stating the implementation of strict governing regulations giving protection to children by relinquishing the obstacles and challenges faced in dealing with such issues. The commission had also urged to take swift action against perpetrators involved in child abuse and molestation.
The commission also noted that cases handled by the authority mostly includes physical and mental abuse on children, sexual abuse as well as negligence. Moreover the dominant cases presented involves families found guilty of negligence over protecting the rights of children.
The statement also placed importance in developing and enhancing child care centers and rehabilitation centers as well as providing adequate training for the personnel in such facilities. Additionally the commission urged for responsible grooming of offender-minors and rehabilitating them back to society as law abiding individuals.
HRCM had urged the relevant authorities to give top consideration on children's best interest when formulating child protection regulations and acts. They had also acknowledged the works carried out by media and various organizations in public awareness camps and educating on child protection and importance.
