In a powerful article on Huffington Post, Paddy Ashdown writes in support of UNICEF’s campaign to end sexual violence against children in conflict. He writes:
During my years in Bosnia, both during the war and afterwards I heard and saw evidence of horrific stories of mass rape and sexual violence committed during the war. Thousands of women and children suffered terrible abuse and the physical and mental scars could stay with survivors for the rest of their lives.
Years later, sexual violence still remains entrenched in conflict zones around the world and children are often the most vulnerable. Children suffering in conflicts are growing up in a world where they face the daily threat of rape and abuse and sexual violence is considered the ‘norm’.
He continues:
When a child has experienced rape or abuse, they need vital support to help them come to terms with their experiences. Psychological and medical assistance along with schooling and safe spaces are essential. Child survivors often need this support for an extended period and these programmes urgently need more funding.
Improving justice too is imperative. Too many armed groups in conflicts around the world assume they can get away with whatever crime they like – including the rape and sexual abuse of children. They hold little fear of being caught, or indeed punished for their despicable crimes. This culture of impunity is contemptible and must end.
He goes on to praise William Hague for the getting this crucial issue on the international agenda, culminating in the Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict which opened today in London. Hague is co-chairing the summit with Angelina Jolie, who is a Special Envoy for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
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2 Comments
Im more concerned about the abuse by British Authorities on British Children. Child Services and the Forced adoption of young children should be reviewed immediately as it is a disgrace. We need proper investigations into claims of abuse and also more protections for children and parents who are forced into this system for the flimsiest of reasons. “at risk of possible harm” is not good enough and should be thrown out of court. Also incorrect recording of data by Social Services should be able to be challenged and changed if proved to be false. Social workers who lie should face perjury charges.
What ever happened to innocent until proven guilty in this country? the shroud of secrecy needs to be lifted on this issue.
I work on the subject of the Hague Convention and the Brussels 11a on International Child Abduction.
My Lib DemMP was not very productive on the issues. I won’t get heavy on the subject, but state, do we just select a certain area or do the best we can for children?