Maltese and Gozitan society should empower children and give them opportunities to voice their opinions and be listened to. It is vital that adults give children’s opinions prime importance when making decisions which will affect them. Wherever children cannot express their views for one reason or another, the protection of children must still be ensured.

The next public discussion on the Manifesto for Children, which will be held on Wednesday 2nd July 2008 from 17.30 until 19.30 at the Office of the Commissioner for Children, Centru Hidma Socjali, 469, St. Joseph High Road, Santa Venera, will focus on Children and the Law. The Office of the Commissioner for Children invites NGOs, the public, parents, and children, to be present for the discussion, and make recommendations on how to improve the situation of children in this regard.

Following a 15 minute presentation by Ms. Anna Maria Mifsud, the floor will be open for discussion where participants will discuss children and the Law. Who safeguards the interests of children in Court? Are children given the opportunity to be heard in Court? How can legal proceedings be more accessible to children?

Amongst other issues, the seminar will focus upon the appointment of child advocates, as well as the setting up of a Guardian ad Litem. Current legislation insomuch as it involves children will also be discussed, such as the lack of total prohibition on corporal punishment, as well as the current discrimination against children born out of wedlock in intestate succession.

If you are interested in sharing your views as to how the current legal system can be improved in order to better protect children, the Office of the Commissioner for Children encourages you to attend, voice your opinion, and make your recommendations known. Everyone is welcome. For more information contact the Office of the Child Commissioner on 21485180.