DILI, 15 july 2021 (TATOLI)– World Vision’s External Advocacy Manager in Timor-Leste (TL), António Moniz do Rosário observed that physical violence against children is a serious problem and the government of Timor-Leste should be treated on this situation.
Mr. Rosario added that World Vision the organization works in partnership with other local, national and international organizations to raise public awareness among parents about child freedom issues.
“Children experience some forms of violence such as physical, emotional and violent discipline. Those forms of violence mostly violated by the community due to the less awareness of children protection and children rights. It is referring to violence against children directly and indirectly in Timor. According to research conducted by World Vision for household shows, the result is that in 2017, 47% of children experienced violence against physically,” António told TATOLI Agency this thursday.
António explained that World Vision has an internal advocacy policy to raise awareness in the community and parents about violence against children’s rights.
He emphasized that in order to guarantee children’s rights, a child protection law must be approved, which is currently being discussed.
World Vision has a dream and work to ensure the Child Protection laws must be approved in Timor-Leste. On this child protection World Vision Timor-Leste has made discussions with Parliament members of committee D.
“The discussion included other national and international partners on a law on children’s rights to be approved. Children’s rights exist in various sectors such as health, education, and others,”he guaranteed.
He appealed to all parents and society to respect children’s rights, treat children in good conditions, because healthy children are those who enjoy rights and feel safe. Therefore, the Government must create life conditions for all children in Timor-Leste.
“Children are free to participate in the development process. They are the future of the nation,” he said.
He explained that Work Vision’s program has carried out some activities to raise community awareness in some municipalities comprising Aileu, Baucau, Bobonaro, Covalima and Dili municipalities.
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Journalist: José Belarmino de Sá
Editor: Rafy Belo
