On the occasion of World Day for the Prevention of Child Abuse, this Wednesday, the 19th of November, launched by the Women’s World Summit Foundation (WWSF) in 2000, the Commissioner for Children would like to reiterate her ongoing commitment “to promote the protection of children from physical or mental harm and neglect, including sexual abuse or exploitation,” [Commissioner for Children Act 2003, art. 9g].

The day is intended to promote the urgent implementation of effective prevention programmes, and is an occasion and cause which the Commissioner for Children has joined, as a supporting member of its aims and objectives.

The protection of the child from any form of abuse must be a responsibility which is shared by all adults, in ensuring that children grow up without fear or risk of any form of harm or neglect. The fundamental right of children to be protected in this respect is enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, through Articles 19 and 34 which oblige State Parties to take all appropriate measures to protect the child from all forms of physical and mental violence, injury or abuse, neglect or negligent treatment, maltreatment or exploitation. This incorporates appropriate legislative, administrative, social and educational measures, all of which must be taken as necessary in order for this fundamental right to be effectively observed.

The 19th of November in this respect marks a day of coalition, whereby 927 organizations from 135 countries (in 2008 alone) commit to make the prevention of abuse and violence against children a priority, through supporting the campaign, raising visibility of the relevant issues, mobilizing participation, and creating a culture of prevention.

Carmen Zammit

Commissioner for Children