Save the Children’s

Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 20 October 2008 The vision Save the Children works for: – a world which respects and values each child – a world which listens to children and learns – a world where all children have hope and opportunity

The mission Save the Children fights for children’s rights. We deliver immediate and lasting improvements to children’s lives worldwide.

Published by Save the Children Sweden on behalf of the International Save the Children Alliance

Code No: 10359 ISBN: 978-91-7321-327-1

© 2008 Save the Children Sweden

Author: Sharon Owen Project manager: David Ruiz Coronado Graphic Design:Annelie Rehnström

Save the Children Sweden 107 88 Stockholm Phone: + 46 8 698 90 00 Fax: + 46 8 698 90 25 Internet: www.rb.se E-mail: [email protected] Contents

FOREWORD ...... 5

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ...... 7

1. INTRODUCTION ...... 9

2. ACTION AGAINST ALL FORMS OF VIOLENCE ...... 13

3. ACTION AGAINST CORPORAL PUNISHMENT ...... 31

4. ACTION AGAINST SEXUAL VIOLENCE ...... 49

5. LESSONS LEARNED ...... 59

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 3 4 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence Foreword

This report describes the global advocacy campaign activities of the Day of Action against all forms of violence against children, and its impact in more than 30 countries. It brings together the experience of these countries to call upon all governments to urgent- ly commit to end all forms of violence through legal reforms and to build national child protection systems that include the elimination of violence as a priority goal. The Convention on the Rights of the Child forms an international basis for ensuring the rights and protection of children. Yet, in every country of the world, there are children who continue to fear and experience violence. The consequences of that violence can continue throughout their lives, influencing their development, their behaviours and their health. There are no simple solutions, but the Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against violence against children recognizes the importance of incorporating a child protection per- spective across the human rights agenda. This global campaign against violence has poten- tial to make a real positive impact on the lives of millions of children around the world. Let us continue to work together to make this world free from any form of violence against children!

Gabriella Olofsson, Chair Save the Children Alliance Task Group on Violence against Children

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 5

Acknowledgements

The Save the Children Worldwide Day of Action against Violence on 20 Octo- ber 2008 is a powerful call from thousands of children across the world to stop the awful violence millions of boys and girls are suffering on a daily basis. This global campaign report is the result of the intensive advocacy work during the cele- bration of the Day of Action event around the globe. Save the Children would like to express its thanks to Sharon Owen for her work on this global report and for her interest in and support of Save the Children’s work on violence against children. In addition, Save the Children would like to give a very special thanks to all the partici- pants, including national key stakeholders, civil societies and NGOs for their enormous work and active campaigns in Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herzegov- ina, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Fiji, Guatemala, Honduras, Italy, Kenya, Kosovo, Lebanon, Lithua- nia, Mexico, Mongolia, Montenegro, Nepal, Nicaragua, OPT, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, Romania, Serbia, South Africa, Southern Sudan, Uganda, Uruguay, Viet Nam and Yemen. They form the backbone of the success that Save the Chil- dren Worldwide Day of Action 2008 has achieved. A special thanks to all Save the Children’s Regional and National Focal Points on child pro- tection on violence Staff for their coordination and support. Their continued commitments and hard work mean that Save the Children is today recognised as one of the key actors within the process of the UN Study on Violence against Children by international actors and organizations since 2003. Also, thanks to all Save the Children’s Communications Staff for ensuring that the Day of Action was highlighted in the national and international media through national press releases, websites and radio broadcasts. Finally, special thanks to the thousands of children who were directly involved and who expressed their views freely on this issue of such importance in their lives.

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 7 8 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 1. Introduction

The problem of violence against children is high on the agenda of organisations and indi- viduals working with and for children all over the world. It is increasingly on the agenda of governments. More importantly, children themselves are speaking out against it – more often, more confidently, and more effectively. Much of this momentum has been spurred by the UN Secretary-General’s Study on Vio- lence against Children (the UN Study), the first comprehensive global study on violence against children. In each of the nine regional consultations for the study held during 2005, children spoke out against the violence they experience – extreme violence, routine vio- lence, and too often both extreme and routine. This was documented in the final report of the UN Study in 2006, and a series of recommendations made to address it. Save the Children was a leading actor in facilitating the participation of children through- out the UN Study, and in 2006 held the first Worldwide Day of Action against violence against children. The Day of Action provides a focus for the mobilisation of children and young people in all regions to voice their opposition to violence against them and to engage in ways to end it. Specifically, its purpose is:

G to generate public awareness of violence against children and the opportunities the UN Study presents for taking action and holding governments to account

G to generate national, regional and international media coverage of violence against chil- dren and Save the Children’s recommendations

G to mobilise governments to implement the recommendations in the UN Study

G to profile Save the Children’s knowledge on good practice for ending violence against children and the organisation’s historic involvement in the UN Study

G to maximise children’s meaningful participation, support children to communicate their own recommendations, and promote national and regional follow-up that features chil- dren’s participation.

Save the Children has prioritised three forms of violence in its follow-up work on the UN Study: corporal punishment and other inhuman or degrading punishment of children, child sexual abuse and exploitation, and organised violence in the streets. It lobbies for implementation of the UN Study recommendations and promotes comprehensive nation- al child protection systems. Activities undertaken during the 2008 Day of Action largely reflect these priorities. In some countries, the opportunity was taken to challenge all forms of violence against children, highlighting the almost unimaginable range of violent experiences children may experience and the close links between different forms of violence. In some countries, participants campaigned in depth on corporal punishment of children. In others the focus was on sex- ual violence. There has been remarkable progress globally in addressing corporal punishment of chil- dren in the context of the UN Study and its follow-up, and in light of the definitive state-

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 9 ment of the obligation to enact prohibition in the Committee on the Rights of the Child’s General Comment No. 8 on The right of the child to protection from corporal punish- ment and other cruel or degrading forms of punishment (arts. 19; 28, para. 2; and 37, inter alia), adopted in 2006.1 Twenty-three countries now have legislation prohibiting all cor- poral punishment in all settings, including the family home. Governments in many more countries have made a commitment to enacting prohibition, with legal reform already under way.

The 2008 Day of Action has given a significant boost to progress towards total prohibi- tion of corporal punishment, with events promoting legal reform in Afghanistan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Italy, Kenya, Kosovo, Lithuania, Montenegro, Peru and Serbia. The chal- lenge is to end a form of violence against children that has historically and universally been seen as socially and legally acceptable. Children themselves have been socialised into believ- ing it is a necessary part of growing up. But, as the events described in this report show, persistence in public education and awareness raising, parliamentary lobbying and work- ing in partnership with children, makes change possible.

Sexual violence against children, on the other hand, is for the most part readily seen as abhorrent. The challenge is the ever burgeoning forms it may take, as travel and tourism become easier and the internet becomes increasingly sophisticated and accessible. The recent World Congress III against Sexual Exploitation of Children and Adolescents in Rio de Janeiro, November 2008, documented the increase in the types and extent of sexual vio- lence against children, as well as efforts to address this in national legislation and in inter- national and regional human rights law.2

Campaigning against sexual violence against children was the topic of at least three coun- tries during the 2008 Day of Action. In Ethiopia, the focus was on sexual abuse and exploitation. Action in Uganda highlighted the links between birth registration and sexu- al violence. And the launch of an advocacy campaign against child marriage in Nepal is a reminder that eliminating some forms of sexual abuse – as in eliminating corporal pun- ishment – necessitates breaking down long held beliefs and traditions.

The Report This report documents the 2008 Day of Action in the nearly 30 countries which partici- pated. Section 2 describes those countries where activities addressed multiple forms of violence – Australia, Bangladesh, Ecuador, Honduras, Lebanon, Mexico, Mongolia, Nicaragua, Occu- pied Palestinian Territories, Pakistan, South Africa, Southern Sudan, Viet Nam and Yemen. Section 3 describes campaigns and other activities against corporal punishment – Bosnia and Herzegovina, Italy, Kenya, Kosovo, Lithuania, Montenegro, Peru, Philippines, Serbia and Uruguay.

1. Available at www2.ohchr.org/english/bodies/crc/comments.htm 2. See www.iiicongressomundial.net/ and the website for young activists www.stopx.org/

10 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action Against Violence Against Children 2008 Section 4 describes campaigns focusing on sexual violence against children – Ethiopia, Nepal and Uganda. Events were also planned in Fiji, Guatemala, Papua New Guinea and Romania, but final reports were not available at the time of writing. Planned events in Zimbabwe could not be carried out. The report is intended to celebrate what can be achieved when children and adults work together for change, and to inspire continued efforts to end all violence against children.

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 11 12 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 2. Action against all forms of violence

In many countries, the focus of the Day of Action was broad and campaigns were organ- ised against all forms of violence. In some, specific types of violence where highlighted with- in this overall approach. For example, there were specific calls for an end to corporal pun- ishment and/or sexual violence in Bangladesh, Ecuador, Honduras, Pakistan, Southern Sudan and Viet Nam. This section describes events in the following countries:

Africa: South Africa Southern Sudan

East Asia and Pacific: Australia Mongolia Viet Nam

Latin America: Ecuador Honduras Mexico Nicaragua

Middle East: Lebanon Occupied Palestinian Territories Yemen

South Asia: Bangladesh Pakistan

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 13 Africa

Mmamitwa Scout Troop march through Mbhekwana Village for the End Violence Against Children Cam- paign held in Greater Tzaneen,Limpopo Province, South Africa on the 20th October 2008. South Africa

South Africa vince. The event was organised in partner- The first ever campaign mobilising chil- ship with Keep the Dream 196, an organi- dren on the issue of ending violence against sations working with community home them took place in the mainly rural Greater based care organisations and Scouts Lim- Tzaneen Municipality in Limpopo pro- popo.

South Africa:The Children’s Petition We the children of the Greater Tzaneen are uniting with children worldwide to call upon all governments worldwide to act against all forms of violence against children.We therefore call upon the Government of South Africa to:

G Make an end to violence against children a top priority

G Ban all forms of violence against children wherever they occur

G Create an effective national child protection system

G Establish a child-friendly juvenile justice system

G Mobilise men and boys in the battle to end violence against children

G Support the appointment of a special representative at the UN to drive forward the global project to end violence against children

We urge the commitment of office bearers to ensure our Human Rights are upheld.

14 Save the Children’s – Worldwide Day of Action Against Violence Against Children 2008 Africa

The focus of the campaign was a petition to “The government must help the Government of South Africa demand- us stop violence.Teachers ing action on violence against children. On 20 October, children in each of 50 villages shouldn’t beat children” composed and performed poems, songs Bongani Makhubele, aged 17 and drama to raise awareness of violence “It is sad because some of against children. Carrying posters and ban- the violent people are inside ners they had created with their scout and cub leaders, they then marched to deliver our protective boundaries ... the petition to their respective Indunas (vil- scouts are on the mission. lage leaders). The children had collected Stopping [violence] is one of 22,600 signatures for the petition, includ- ing from parents, teachers and other adults. our missions” With the agreement of the children, the Nhlanhla Khosa, Indunas will meet with the Mayor of aged 16, in his poem Scouts against Violence Greater Tzaneen Municipality to request that the petition be delivered to the Premier “People should stop beating of Limpopo Province and from there to the President’s Office. This process will contin- children and domestic vio- ue during the national commemoration of lence.We are also human the 16 days of Activism from November to and we have a right to make 10 December. mistakes but we have a A total of 1,300 children were directly responsibility to learn from involved in the action through scouts. Four those mistakes” schools had given scout leaders and mem- bers the opportunity to talk to children Nhlamulo Mpenyana, aged 15 about the event, encouraging additional children to join the march and the activities “Beating children creates after school. unnecessary fear among chil- “Parents, let’s work together dren in the family and and respect our rights. schools.We want to feel safe Please let’s break the silence in our homes and schools on child abuse” and have trust in our parents Hlayisani Mongwe, aged 13, in her poem and teachers” Child Abuse Tshembani Ngonyana, aged 18

Save the Children’s – Worldwide Day of Action Against Violence Against Children 2008 15 Africa

Southern Sudan

Southern Sudan

Events were held in Jonglei and NBEG G one-day training of the child rights club states, organised with the Ministry of Social in NBEG based on the Safe Me and Safe Development, the county commissioner You manual and other officials. The key messages were G public rallies in Jonglei and NBEG in children’s demands for an end to sexual which children who had been trained in abuse, violence, child labour and neglect, the child rights club presented their early marriage, corporal punishment and opinions to the public. discrimination. In Jonglei, the event coincided with a local Nearly 2,000 children participated in the drum and dance gathering which attracted activities, which included: a huge crowd and provided a ready audi- ence. In one speech, a boy spoke about vio- G one-day workshops involving 60 chil- lence experienced by children who work at dren and 5 government officials in Jon- the bus station, child hawkers, and children glei state and 67 children in NBEG state who work in hotels and restaurants. A dra- G marching and chanting through the ma presentation by primary school children market, carrying banners displaying touched on violence against children in cat- messages about violence against children tle camps, on the streets, in schools, in the

G speeches, poems and drama presenta- workplace, at home and in the community. tions by children The main event in NBEG took place on a G speeches from government officials on public holiday and speeches by key govern- the concerns raised by children ment officials drew large crowds. Children

16 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence Africa

spoke about ending violence against them, and appealed to parents and teachers to cooperate and respect children’s right to education and end corporal punishment against them.

Mmamitwa Scout Troop’s banner. Southern Sudan

Southern Sudan: Poem by Bor A

Days are gone! Days are gone when girls were kept at home for domestic duties and denied their rights Right time to send girls to schools and give them their rights Days are gone when girls were forced to early marriages Right time to complete their duties Days are gone when women’s or girls’ offices were kitchen Right time to have equal opportunity with men or boys

Dear parents, leaders, government officials and all present here in this celebration of Day of action on violence against children

We represent children of southern Sudan and we are appealing to you to stop violence against us, children. This poem is meant to change the harmful traditional cultures, traditions, practices or perceptions about children, both boys and girls.

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 17 East Asia and Pacific

Australia

Australia

Save the Children Australia launched a child rights staff blog on its intranet and publicised the day on its public website to raise awareness of violence against children in all the countries in which it works – Aus- tralia, Bangladesh, Laos, Cambodia, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands. The aim is to mobilise staff to par- ticipate in the event next year (2009).

18 Save the Children’s – Worldwide Day of Action Against Violence Against Children 2008 East Asia and Pacific

Mongolia

Events were held in Ulaanbaatar and Dornod provinces, in collaboration with the Children’s “Protection” Club and local NGO networks – the Child Protection Network, the Child Participation Network, the ECPAT network, and the Gamma agency (a professional photo agency). The aim of the activities was to raise public awareness, to influence policy makers and to listen to children’s views. The main Mongolia events were:

G the launch of the NGO shadow report against Children NOW!” wristbands, and the children’s shadow report on conducted by Save the Children and D. implementation of the Convention on Davaanyam, one of the 50 children who the Rights of the Child in Mongolia. had participated in the “Focus on Kids” This was the first time children had pre- black and white photography project pared a shadow report (developed during run by Save the Children and the Arts June to October) and the first time chil- Council of Mongolia. Over 100 guests dren and NGOs had presented their attended the opening ceremony, which shadow reports to the public and policy was covered by five TV channels

makers. The children also made two G a mini network “Together against Vio- documentaries. Nearly 200 people par- lence” involving 10 schools in Dornod ticipated in the launch events on 20 and province, where 135 children met to dis- 27 October, including representatives of cuss children’s right to protection from nine political parties. There was wide violence. A song writing contest and a media coverage, and the children’s docu- drawing contest were held, and 33 social mentaries were broadcast through two work students raised awareness among TV channels. The children presented children, teachers and parents through their report to UNICEF officials on 3 visits to schools and houses November G a drama activity (“Our Wish”) and draw- G establishment of a Children’s “Child ing competition (“My Family”) were Protection” Club, announced on 19 held in Ulaanbaatar to communicate October by the children who participat- children’s views to the public. ed in developing the shadow report

G a photo exhibition showing photos of children with SC’s “Stop Violence

Save the Children’s – Worldwide Day of Action Against Violence Against Children 2008 19 East Asia and Pacific

Viet Nam Viet Nam

A national campaign on the theme “Pro- Care of Children). A “walking tour” of the tect the children – Protect our environ- country was initiated to raise awareness of ment” was launched on 1 October with the need for child protection. dissemination of the UN Study findings On 20 October, a child forum was held in and recommendations. Research on corpo- Hanoi, attended by about 300 children, ral punishment in Viet Nam was present- and a meeting was held in Phu Yen to dis- ed, together with the recommendations of cuss the need to end violence against chil- the Save the Children Alliance and pictures dren, including corporal punishment. The and messages from children. About 3,500 key message was “A rod never makes a good people attended the launch, including child – Love is stronger than any scold”. 1,500 children and Ms Truong My Hoa (former vice president), Ms Pham Thi Thu (former chair woman of the Committee of Population, Family and Children of Viet Nam), and Mr Hoang Van Tien (Deputy Director of the Bureau of Protection and

20 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence Latin America

Ecuador people in their communities. The radio Events aimed to raise awareness of the spots covered domestic violence, violence problem of violence against children and in schools and institutions, violence in the the importance of good treatment of chil- streets and the community, child labour dren. Thirty-five young people from peas- and sexual abuse and exploitation, and were ant and indigenous communities in the broadcast by Radio Latacunga, a provincial province of Cotopaxi were involved in station reaching more than 350,000 peo- developing three radio spots during the day. ple. During the day, the young people also The young people researched the subject, distributed leaflets in the city, and there was compiled personal stories, and conducted some local TV coverage. interviews with government officials and

Ecuador

Honduras respect and abide by the laws

G Over 440 children were involved in adults to understand that children make planning, organising and implementing the mistakes Day of Action. Children asked for: G more affection from adults – “we do not want more children living on the street” G parents to take responsibility for their children Activities during the day included 2 munic- G greater security at school and in cities ipal marches, 2 school fairs against violence,

G training for parents and teachers to treat a radio programme and a TV programme. children better The marches toured the city and led to shows in the park. At the school fairs, G better health, safety, education and food through play and games children talked conditions for children about violence in schools, homes and the G adults to meet and respect children’s community, and then made proposals to rights improve treatment of children in different G children not to have to be afraid to settings. Brochures about child sexual abuse denounce violence, and for authorities to and child rights were also distributed.

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 21 Latin America

Mexico

In 12 cities across Mexico, 12,000 chil- dren and young people carried out a vari- ety of activities aimed at communicating their proposals on how children should be treated. These activities included:

G workshops in which children shared their knowledge about what violence is Mexico and how they live with it, their propos- brown paper and developed symbols of peace als about how they want to be treated, using elements from nature. The activity and their opinions on how violence can ended with the children embracing one be prevented another as a sign of affection. G public exhibitions of artwork G children composing stories and songs “I like it that adults listened about their proposals, and materials to us” about the importance of love and affec- tion in their lives “I like being treated with G parents presenting puppet theatre plays and writing letters to their children affection”

G demonstrations in the community parks

G the presentation of a play about how a “I felt love and happiness” boy lives with violence in his family (“The voice of Aurora”) “I liked mum coming so that G workshops for parents on positive disci- we talked about violence pline, school-family cooperation, and reading to children and she stops beating me”

G workshops for teachers on positive disci- pline and early childhood development. “No more beating, try love”

In Yucatán, essay competitions were held in four elementary schools and two secondary “No more yelling, try schools on the subject “how to live without words” violence”. The children who wrote the best essays, as voted by their peers, presented their “What I liked best was to be ideas on the radio. A children’s session was also held during which a “contract of peace” able to say my ideas and many was made. Children made handprints on people would listen to me”

22 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence Latin America

Nicaragua Nicaragua

For the second year, Save the Children, etc. About 1,500 children from primary civil society organisations and state institu- and secondary schools and 2,000 adults tions organised an Action Fair against Vio- attended the fair. lence toward Children and Adolescents. There was extensive media coverage, with The key focus this year was a call for socie- significant support during the media con- ty to take action to prevent the daily vio- vocation process from the National Com- lence against children and to respond with munications Network for Children’s Rights consistency and respect to children affect- (Project ANDI) implemented by Dos Gen- ed by violence. Another aim was to pro- eraciones. A media plan was prepared mote the UN Study on Violence against which resulted in airtime on two radio sta- Children. tions and reports on two TV shows. Two The fair was held at the shopping centre newspapers published interviews before the Multicentro Las Américas under the slogan fair and one also covered the event and “It’s Time to Act”. Throughout the day, published a good report on the fair’s activ- children’s dance, theatre and professional ities. Three TV channels covered the fair, performers provided entertainment and along with Radio La Primerísima, which communicated messages about violence broadcast live from the fair for two hours in against children. At the same time, 24 the morning. Radio Universidad transmit- organisations set up stands at the fair, pro- ted fair activities in the afternoon, and viding information and carrying out a additional coverage was provided by Radio range of activities with children and adults, Sandino, Radio Éxitos, Radio Corporación including games, arts and crafts, contests, and Radio 580.

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 23 Middle East

Middle East G schools should have a playground or oth- er safe space for children to play, with Activities were conducted in Lebanon, supervisors to protect them the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT) G and Yemen, involving more than 7,000 parents should be more actively involved children in total. The key messages were: with their children, protecting them, and should be taught not to be physical- G make ending violence against children a ly or verbally violent towards them top priority G parents should be more involved in chil- G ban all forms of violence against children dren’s schools in all settings, especially in schools G the media should be more attentive to G create an effective national child protec- the subject of violence against children tion system G the police and military should play a more active role in protecting children Lebanon G all areas still littered with UXOs should be de-mined In the week leading up to the day of G there should be a helpline and centres for action, partner organisations conducted children to turn to when they are abused activities with groups of children aged 5–17 in all regions of Lebanon. The aim was to increase awareness of child protection and On the Day of Action a roundtable discus- of the recommendations of the UN Study. sion took place between children and rep- Materials from Save the Children Sweden resentatives from the Ministries of Social was used with the groups, including Safe Affairs, Health, and Labour, and a repre- You Safe Me, Rights & Responsibilities Fold- sentative from the Internal Security Forces. ers and Colouring Books on Children’s Rights. Children sang a song about ending violence Through group discussions, children devel- against them and presented their list of rec- oped a list of questions they proposed to ask ommendations. This was followed by a government representatives during the Day question and answer session. of Action. They also developed recommen- Two weeks before the Day of Action, a major dations on how to prevent violence: study on child sexual abuse in Lebanon had G all schools should end violence against been launched, and the findings were publi- children, implement laws protecting cised again during the day. children, and follow-up children who face abuse

G teachers should be taught how to edu- cate children in a peaceful, respectful way that does not hurt children’s feelings or physically abuse them

24 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence Middle East

Occupied Palestinian Territories

Meetings took place with 60 mothers from Hebron and Bethlehem to discuss violence against children. A theatre per- formance was held about violence against street children, targeting girls. Seven chil- dren participated in a field visit to the Police Office and discussed with the gener- al director and the family unit coordinator the role of the unit in protecting children in conflict with the law. Children also drew up a list of recommendations on how to stop violence against them. Child participants from school in Day of Action. Occupied Palestinian Territories

Yemen

Events were held in the Safe Childhood Centre (Aden), the refugee schools in Kharaz camp (Lahj), and in the Shawdab Foundation for childhood centre in Sanaa. Approximately 2,700 children (including children with disabilities, street children, working children, refugee children, and the children’s parliament) participated in send- ing a clear message to the government that violence against children is unjustified and can be prevented. Eleven of Save the Chil- dren Sweden’s partners also participated. Through dance and song refugee children send- Activities included role plays and singing. ing a message of ending violence against them. Animation films developed by children on Yemen child trafficking, early marriage, and the use of weapons were screened and discussed. There was an exhibition of children’s draw- ings about violence and positive dreams for a peaceful future.

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 25 South Asia

rights, the nature and effects of violence against children, and the role of parents and other family members, neighbours, teachers, religious leaders, NGOs, local government representatives and govern- ment and other stakeholders in reducing violence against children. Many recommendations were made, including to stop all forms of violence Bangladesh against children in the family, workplace, street and society generally, including cor- poral punishment in schools and institu- tions, child marriages, drug abuse, and to Bangladesh involve children themselves in this. Other recommendations addressed education, Events took place in ten districts of the discrimination against children, early child country and included: development, and proper implementation of the law and of the UN Convention on G a children’s rally the Rights of the Child. G children submitting a “Memorandum” to the Deputy Commissioner of each Recommendations by children themselves district included:

G children participating in discussion G stop beating/torturing us meetings on violence against children G be sympathetic towards us so that we G drawing sessions, art contests, exhibi- will be compassionate to the next gener- tions, street theatre ation G birth registration G ensure support for health, education, G video documentary shows and displays recreation and food of publications on children’s issues. G prevent child marriages More than 8,000 people participated, in- G allow children to express their choices cluding about 6,000 children and national and opinions and local government officials and celebri- G organise more events like this at village ties. In all districts, local children forums level and partner organisations were involved in G provide more opportunities for orphan- planning and implementing the events of ed, sheltered and destitute children. the day. The key messages were about children’s

26 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence South Asia

Bangladesh: Memorandum submitted to district Deputy Commissioners 20 October 2008 Deputy Commissioner, Office of Deputy Commissioner

Subject: Memorandum submitting to protect violence against children on “Save the Children day to protect violence against children globally.”

Dear Sir,

With due respect, I would like to inform you that Bangladesh is one of the coun- tries to sign in the United Nations Child Rights Charter to establish child rights. Our children are still the frequent victim of many sorts of abuses in family, school, workplace, street and society in spite of taking many initiatives in this regard. Today at the eve of “Save the Children day to protect violence against children globally”, we are submitting our suggestions to protect violence against children to you on the basis of United Nations Child Rights Charter.

Suggestions: 1. To consider the issue of ending all sorts of abuses against children with high priority. 2. To take necessary initiatives for child protection and to eradicate all sorts of abuses, violence and exploitations against children. 3. To implement the children justice system very quickly. 4. To take proper measures to ensure everybody’s participation and to make peo- ple aware to protect violence against children. 5. To take proper initiative for appropriate implementation of Children Act 1974. 6. To take active measures to make people conscious in relation to child rights.

It’s our humble request to you to take necessary steps to uphold the rights of chil- dren on the basis of above suggestions.

Yours Faithfully, All Children of the District

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 27 South Asia

Pakistan

Pakistan

A week-long Campaign on Violence National Child Protection System Against Children was organised in Pakistan G sensitise communities on violence against by Save the Children in partnership with a children with a special focus on corporal number of other organisations: SCUK, punishment and child sexual abuse Bedari, Thardeep Rural Development Pro- G raise awareness about child rights on gramme, Pakistan Paediatrics Association, every level, especially among the media the Society for the Protection of the Rights G mobilise communities for child partici- of the Child, Sahil, Plan Pakistan, Rozan and pation to make systems work. SEHER. Government partners in the cam- paign were the National Commission for The campaign covered 25 districts of Pak- Child Welfare and Development, the Min- istan, culminating in a main symposium at istry of Social Welfare and Special Educa- the end of the week on 20 October. It was tion, and the Provincial Social Divisions. the first of its kind to take place on such a Media Channels supporting the work were large geographical scale, and the first time Hum TV, ATV, PTV and Radio One. all child rights organisations had gathered The key aims were to: together to strongly advocate approval of the Child Protection Bill. Petition cards G demand approval of the Child Protec- were signed by over 10,000 people de- tion Bill manding that the Government approve the G mobilise the government to establish the Child Protection Bill. These will be for-

28 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence South Asia

warded to the Prime Minister and a plan will be devised to ensure improvement and approval of the Child Protection Bill. Other activities included awareness raising sessions with school children and commu- nity workers, media consultation, a radio programme, puppet shows for children, a symposium on corporal punishment of children (including street children) and a final main symposium on violence against children at the end of the week. Almost 3,500 people participated in the campaign, around half of whom were children. Chil- dren participated in discussions and debates, signed the petition cards and raised their concerns about violence through role plays, essays, posters, etc.

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 29 Pakistan: Petition card (front) calling for approval of the Child Protection Bill

Pakistan: Petition card (back)

30 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 3. Action against corporal punishment

A number of countries marked the Day of Action by campaigning on the specific issue of corporal punishment of children. All the participating European countries did this, reflect- ing the importance of the issue as promoted in the Council of Europe’s regional campaign, with its goal of ensuring that all 47 member states prohibit corporal punishment in all set- tings, including the home. This section describes events in the following countries:

Africa: Kenya

East Asia and Pacific: Philippines

Europe: Bosnia and Herzegovina Serbia Kosovo Montenegro Italy Lithuania

Latin America: Peru Uruguay

South Asia: Afghanistan

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 31 Africa

Kenya Kenya

A radio call-in programme was organ- ised by Save the Children Finland and SCS partners, ANPPCAN Kenya and ANPP- CAN Regional. The aim was to call for an end to corporal punishment in schools and homes. Five people participated in the pro- gramme, including one child and one teacher/parent. Specific recommendations were made on the need for a public cam- paign, engaging in legal reform issues, and continuous training of teachers and parents on positive discipline.

32 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence East Asia and Pacific

Philippines tives on and experiences of corporal pun- Activities were organised in key cities ishment, and an information pack cover- covering the country’s three major island ing the findings and recommendations of groupings (Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao). the UN Study on Violence against Chil- The main advocacy message for all activi- dren and relevant research in the Philip- ties was the urgent need to end all forms of pines. During the launch, Maria Elena corporal punishment of children and to Caraballo, Director of the Council for the practice positive discipline. Other messages Welfare of Children, expressed govern- were: (a) the importance of the family in ment support for the campaign to end protecting and promoting children’s rights; violence against children, including cor- (b) the need to work for peace, especially in poral punishment, and Congresswoman Mindanao where families are affected by Monica Prieto-Teodoro sent her message armed conflict; (c) the importance of chil- of support which was read aloud: “I fer- dren’s participation in ending violence; and vently hope that more people will be (d) the need to work with child rights advo- strongly persuaded that resorting to cates, groups and child protection networks spanking, humiliating, and violently pun- to end violence against children. ishing the children for their wrongdoings only teach these fragile children that The following activities were conducted in problems can be solved through the use of Metro Manila and Luzon: violence by the strong against the weak.” She made a commitment to push strong- G launch of the video “Time for Change”, ly for the passage of the bill to prohibit showing children’s and parents’ perspec- corporal punishment she has filed, with

Philippines

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 33 East Asia and Pacific

the support of advocates to build support paintings using water colours and oil among other legislators pastels. The activity took place in the

G a march around the Bagong Silang in lobby of a popular shopping mall in Caloocan City on the theme “Let’s make Cebu City, and the artwork was exhibit a stand against violence against children”, in the Art Space of the mall the follow- following which a Pledge of Commit- ing week. ment to End Violence against Children In Mindanao: was signed by stakeholders in the com- munity, including the Village Chairper- G a family unity walk for peace and chil- son, Village Councillors, Chairperson dren’s rights was organised in Davao City and members of the Village Youth Coun- and General Santos City, with children cil, NGOs, children’s organisations, com- and adults carrying signs calling for an munity health workers, and students and end to corporal punishment of children. Parent Teacher Associations The march was followed by a short pro- gramme including games with prizes G a theatre presentation and noise barrage bearing advocacy messages, and infor- on corporal punishment, on the theme mation was given on the Worldwide Day “Our voices should not be disregarded; of Action and the campaign to end cor- we will fight for our rights”. Children and poral punishment adults marched in the streets of Builihan in Silang, calling for a change in how they G children and adults participated in a are treated and informing children that motorcade in Zamboanga City, followed they have rights. Chanting and banners by a gathering in the plaza where key highlighted children’s issues, especially people, including the City Vice Mayor, corporal punishment in the home, talked about the importance of ending schools and community. The march cul- corporal punishment of children and the minated in a short play presented by the Department of Social Welfare and Active Youth Movement depicting how Development Regional Director urged children’s rights are violated in the home, legislators and others to take action schools and community, including G a two-day children’s festival in Ozamis through corporal punishment. City and neighbouring towns included discussions on children’s rights and short In Visayas: plays depicting participants’ experiences G an artworkshop for children was held on as children, including of violence. A car- the theme “Stop corporal punishment. avan was then conducted along the high- Stop hurting children. Practice positive way and the streets of the City, and chil- discipline”. Children discussed corporal dren expressed their support for the punishment and positive discipline, Save campaign to end violence against them. the Children’s video on corporal punish- The event was covered on radio and TV ment was shown, and children created and in print media.

34 Save the Children’s – Worldwide Day of Action Against Violence Against Children 2008 East Asia and Pacific

Philippines

In total, 3,171 people participated in the such actions done to other events, of which 2,139 were children. children. “I and my friends, and other children, have been physical- Today, these are our calls: ly hurt by and experienced Talk to us,children, properly fear of our parents, brothers Give us advice but do not and sisters, and other rela- humiliate us tives.We have run away Let children understand from home and lived in oth- through good words. er people’s houses… beaten our own brothers, sisters And, in the end, no longer and other children, and have will a child experience abuse considered doing terrible and punishment. Children things just to forget how we will not be beaten anymore! were hurt and harmed… Stop abusing children! Stop Until now, we are still Corporal Punishment!” excerpt from the Children’s Statement, Fami- reminded (of these experi- ly Unity Walk for Peace and Children’s ences), continue to experi- Rights, Davao City ence this, and have seen

Save the Children’s – Worldwide Day of Action Against Violence Against Children 2008 35 Europe

and a way of introducing similar laws in oth- er Western Balkan countries. Nearly 500 children participated in the cam- paign, undertaking street actions and polling citizens. Children wanted to attract public attention to the problem and to explore the attitudes of adults and children. Based on children's ideas, Save the Children devel- oped a questionnaire and an information leaflet about corporal punishment and its Serbia consequences. The survey results were pre- sented to the government officials of each South East Europe – Bosnia participating country, supporting requests & Herzegovina, Kosovo, for necessary amendments to legislation to Montenegro, Serbia prohibit corporal punishment. Other activ- ities in each country are described below. A coordinated campaign in South East One month before the day of action in Europe – in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Koso- Bosnia and Herzegovina, children from vo, Montenegro and Serbia – was organised child rights monitoring groups conducted a jointly by Save the Children Norway SEE and survey of 747 children and 719 adults, Save the Children UK SEE. Local partners including professionals working with chil- organised the event at local levels: Our Chil- dren, on attitudes towards corporal punish- dren (Sarajevo), High Neighbor (Banja ment. The preliminary results, presented in Luka), Child Rights Centre (Konjic), Future the media, showed that two out of five adults (Modrica), Beosupport (Belgrade), Familia believe parents have the right to use corpo- (Belgrade), Centre for Child Rights of Mon- ral punishment; a third believe the law tenegro (Podgorica) and Initiative 6 (Prizren). should prohibit corporal punishment. A The campaign used the slogan “Raise your third of children believe that no one should hand against corporal punishment of chil- use corporal punishment, that it is in effec- dren”, together with the catchphrases “One tive in childrearing and that it shows a lack bruise – thousand consequences” and, in of communication skills. There was consid- Serbia, “Beat the Stick with the Law”. The erable support for legal prohibition of cor- focus on prohibition of corporal punish- poral punishment in all settings among ment was decided by children as a priority adults and children. during their summer workshop in Neum Other activities in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Bosnia and Herzegovina). The fact that included: neighbouring Croatia has already passed leg- islation prohibiting all corporal punishment G street action in which children coloured of children was seen as a positive example their faces to appear bruised, polled

36 Save the Children’s – Worldwide Day of Action Against Violence Against Children 2008 Europe

passers by, and distributed leaflets. SC tributed leaflets and bracelets and inter- staff had initially been concerned at chil- viewed adults and children in the city dren’s desire to use make up in this way, square and a newly opened shopping mall. but decided to support the initiative A bench with promotion materials was dec- when children persisted, taking measures orated with artworks created by children on to ensure their safety throughout. In the the topic of corporal punishment. The chil- event, it proved a potent way of getting dren participating wore T-shirts specially the attention of passers by and engaging designed for the occasion bearing the mes- them on the subject sage “Stop Corporal Punishment”. G a press conference to raise awareness of Street action in Serbia, took place in a the problem of corporal punishment and number of locations, promoting the mes- promote the UN Study recommenda- sage “Beat the Stick with the Law”. Around tions and the global initiative to ban cor- 120 children distributed 1,150 bracelets poral punishment in all settings and 1,600 leaflets, and presented their mes- G a round table discussion involving law, sage to government authorities, the media health and education professionals, on and the wider public. The action was corporal punishment and its links with implemented in partnership with two local other forms of violence against children NGOs and their child supporters.

G primary school contests for micro-proj- Six children presented a letter asking the ects on preventing violence against chil- republican Ombudsman Sasa Jankovic to dren in schools and in the community. lobby on their behalf for parliament to The best projects, as judged by children adopt legislative amendments that would from the schools, will be implemented explicitly ban all corporal punishment in all by the children with financial support settings. During the reception in the from Save the Children UK. Ombudsman's office, children discussed the rights of children in Serbia and in the In Kosovo, primary school children dis- international context, as well as legal pro- tributed leaflets and brochures on child hibition of corporal punishment in all set- rights and corporal punishment in city tings. The Ombudsman promised to sup- squares and pedestrian zones. They also port the proposed legal amendments. interviewed passers by, using questionnaires in Albanian and Roma languages. In Montenegro, 40 children from elemen- tary schools, a home for children without parental care and pupil’s parliaments in schools interviewed their peers, teachers, parents and other family members about violence against children and especially about corporal punishment. Children dis- Serbia

Save the Children’s – Worldwide Day of Action Against Violence Against Children 2008 37 Europe

“I love being in the position “When someone hits you to help other children. My then they do not love you” parents have never hit me, girl aged 3 they talked a lot with me and I think that is the best way for someone to grow up. For all those children “I get beaten up a lot and I who are not as lucky as I guess I am a very bad boy. was, I hope this action will I get hit for skipping school, help to make people more swearing, stealing, lying, going aware of the harmful effects to bars for begging and for of being hit”, boy aged 17 other things, I forgot what it “I told children about chil- was. My dad hits me every dren rights and how to rec- day and he says that is good ognize violence. I think it is for me and that way I will the best when children edu- learn to be a good man cate other children, it is once I grow up, but I’m not much easier to understand sure. He does not know that what is being said this way I learned how to read. than when grown ups tell I don’t care, I will continue you what is right and what is to do as I’m pleased. I like it wrong.And we trust each today, I told everybody that others more” hitting children is bad and girl aged 17 they should try to talk to us instead. I used to hit my small brother when he was bad, but I will try not to do it anymore” boy aged 11

38 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence South East Europe: Save the Children questionnaire on corporal punishment This poll is carried out by the children activists of Save the Children and (put the name of partner organization) with the purpose to obtain more information on the stands of the adults and children on violence against chil- dren.According to the UN Study on Violence against Children large number of children is daily exposed to vio- lence, while corporal punishment of children presents one of the most frequent forms. Thank you for participating in this poll whose results will be presented to the Government with the aim to improve the situation.

Fills person that performs polling-interviewer Date: Interviewee (circle the answer) a) Adult b) Child (person up to age of 18) male female male female City State

1.Which of these could be marked as corporal punishment of children? (Put an X on answer you find correct)

Corporal punishment is: Yes No a) Slapping, smacking or pinching b) Pulling child's hair or ear c) Hitting the child with arm or leg d) Hitting the child with rod/belt/slipper e) Hitting the child with heavy and sharp objects

2.Who is by your opinion allowed to physically punish the children? (It is possible to circle more answers) a) Father e) Neighbors b) Mother f) Teachers/care takers c) Both parents f) Police d) Grandparents g) No one

3. What do you think of corporal punishment of children? a) It is necessary for child upbringing b) Sometimes is needed in child upbringing c) It is completely inefficient method in child upbringing, while it is about the lack of the communication skills of adults with children d) I do not think anything

4.What do you think what are the consequences of corporal punishment/how corporal punishment affects children? a) There are no consequences, it hurts a little bit and passes soon. b) It is dangerous and harmful to child physical development c) It is harmful to psychological and social well-being d) Child that was punished in that way will as a grown up discipline/punish its children in the same manner because it will not know to act differently

5. Do you think it is necessary to legally forbid corporal punishment of children? a) Yes,corporal punishment of children needs to be forbidden legally to all b) Yes, when it comes to persons that are not child parents c) It is not needed to ban it legally, but what is needed is to speak more and to raise awareness on the other and non violent ways of child upbringing d) No “bat came from heaven”

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 39 Europe

Note to interviewer:You should read to the person you interviewed this definition of corporal punishment and thank this person in the end.

UN Child Rights Committee has defined corporal punishment of children in the year 2006 as:

Every punishment in which physical force is used and whose intention is to cause certain amount of pain and discomfort, no matter how light they were.This mostly refers to hitting the children (slapping, smacking, and hitting the body) with the hand or object (whip, rod, belt, shoe, wooden spoon etc.). However, it can also be e.g. kicking a child with the leg, shaking the child, throwing the child, scratching, pinching or bite the child, pulling child's hear or hit the child's ears, forcing the children to be in uncomfortable positions, causing burns, forcing child to swallow ( e.g. wash- ing the mouth with the soap or forcing child to swallow hot spices). COROPORAL PUNISH- MENT IS ALWAYS HUMILATING according to the Child Rights Committee, but there are also non-corporal forms of punishing the children that are cruel and humiliating as well and therefore unacceptable, and they are: intimidation, humiliation, disrespect, defamation, putting the blame, derision or threatening.

40 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence Europe

Italy Italy

Save the Children Italia organised a poral punishment of children – question and seminar in parliament. More than 100 peo- answers distributed. Invited speakers were ple attended, including representatives from Mr. Citarella (UN Committee on the the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Wel- Rights of the Child), Mrs. Elda Moreno fare, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry (Council of Europe), Mrs. Liliana Orjuela for Family Affairs, the Ministry of Equal Lopez (Save the Children Spain) and Mrs. Opportunity, the Ministry of Foreign Monika Sarajärvi (Save the Children Swe- Affairs, academics, civil society (including den). It was felt important to present two parents’ associations and women’s associa- different examples of countries which have tions), the Regional Ombudsman for Chil- achieved full prohibition. As the first coun- dren Rights, local authorities, and judges try to do so in 1979, Sweden provided evi- from Juvenile Court. Time constraints made dence of long term evaluation of imple- it impossible to include children. mentation. Prohibiting all corporal pun- ishment in 2007, Spain provided an exam- Save the Children Italia recommended to ple of a country culturally similar to Italy the government that legislation be achieving law reform. reformed by 2009 to ban corporal punish- ment in the family, implementing the rec- Save the Children Italia President and all ommendations of the UN Study and the the relevant politicians at the event signed Council of Europe. The video of the Coun- the Council of Europe postcard to support cil of Europe campaign, Raise your hand the campaign. The event was well covered against corporal punishment of children, was in the media, with a number of TV, radio shown, translated into Italian, and the and news wires reports and 2 articles. Council of Europe brochure Abolishing cor-

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 41 Europe

Lithuania Lithuania

Save the Children Lithuania used the a law prohibiting corporal punishment day of action to raise awareness among the G three flash mobs by children who wore public and the new government of the red T-shirts and hid behind red umbrel- extent of violence by parents in the home las, distributing information materials to (48%) and the number of children facing the public, and visits to 20 businesses in a violence and bullying at school (65%) bus decorated with posters, distributing (2008 figures). The importance of law information within the business sector reform to prohibit corporal punishment G a cinema event for children to promote was emphasised through: Groups against violence and invite more G an open table discussion involving rep- children to join them resentatives from the Municipality, chil- G a regional television broadcast involving dren’s rights groups, police and children children from Groups against violence, from Groups against violence and representatives from Siauliai Munici- G a live radio broadcast, in which the gen- pality, Child Rights and Save the Children eral secretary of Save the Children Lithuania secretariat Siauliai branch Lithuania presented information on vio- Nearly 300 children participated in total, lence against children in Lithuania and the majority from Groups against violence globally, and explained the necessity for and other from schools.

42 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence Latin America

Peru Peru

The Day of Action took place in the con- Children and Adolescents), the Peruvian text of an ongoing campaign to prohibit cor- actress Monica Sanchez, and Hellen Tipi poral punishment. The objective was to pro- (Organizations for Children and Teens mote the amendments to the Code on Chil- Against Punishment). dren and Adolescents to incorporate explicit Awareness raising among the general public prohibition of corporal punishment and oth- was carried out by way of an arts festival, er cruel or degrading forms of punishment, through painting, puppet shows, dance, jug- and to sensitive society generally about the gling, music, drama, hip hop, Rap, sculpture importance of eradicating all forms of vio- and other fun and artistic experiences, cul- lence against children in the name of disci- minating in a musical concert featuring the pline or correction, including through dis- Peruvian rock bands Malandra, Nicoman seminating the recommendations of the Damn, Collective Circus Band and Maroon. Committee on the Rights of the Child and the UN Study. The events brought together more than 500 children and adults, including children living A public gathering was attended by Dr Jorge on the streets, workers and schoolchildren. Valencia (Deputy Ombudsman’s Office of Children and Adolescents), Juan Carlos It was felt that combining the efforts of many Eguren (Congressman and Chairman of the organisations helped to consolidate the coali- Special Commission Review of the Code of tion against corporal punishment, com-

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 43 Latin America

prising all organisations working on the Uruguay issue with the support of the Ombuds- In 2007, Uruguay passed a law amending man’s Office: Save the Children – Peru, the Children and Young People‘s Code to Training Institute for Child and Adoles- explicitly prohibit all corporal punishment. cent Workers (Infant), Municipal School, The focus of the Day of Action was to high- National Movement of Children and light for politicians and the public the need Adolescents Organized Workers of Peru for education and awareness raising on the (MNNATSOP), Ayllu Situwa, Plan Inter- new law to ensure its proper implementa- national, Land of Men of Switzerland, tion. Every Child Vision, Solidarity, Minkarte, Artists Network of Volunteer Association In the days leading up to the Day of Action, Angeles D1, Expressive Arts Therapy information materials were distributed in Association (TAE), and Mats Association participating schools. On 20 October, more Arena, Red Ball Association, Amnesty than 400 children gathered to express their International and CODEH. opposition to all forms of violence, especal- ly in the family. Motivated by a group of 20 animators, children participated in games and sculpture activities. The end of the event was marked by positioning a giant banner bearing the slogan “Yes to life, no to violence”, chosen by the children and signed with the imprints of children’s hands, in front of the Parliament in Mon- tevideo. The Day of Action was given wide media coverage through the national news portal and radio stations.

Uruguay

44 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence South Asia

Afghanistan Afghanistan

Save the Children Sweden – Norway G Concerted efforts must be made to pre- held a month of action on violence against vent, address and respond to all forms of children, with a number of events in Kab- violence against children. ul and regional events in Mazar, Jalalabad G Legislation is needed to outlaw corporal and Bamyian. Other regions were involved punishment and other cruel or degrad- through partner agencies. The campaign ing punishment in schools, to ensure the addressed violence in general but the main right of all children to a violence free focus of the month of action was corporal education. punishment and other cruel or degrading G It is everyone’s responsibility to end vio- punishment of children in schools and lence against children. making the ban on corporal punishment signed by the Ministry of Education and In addition to the above, efforts at the Ministry of Justice in 2005 a reality. The provincial level aimed to: event promoted the recommendation of the UN Study that all violence against chil- G raise awareness of the huge problem of dren should be outlawed by 2009 in all violence against children and the devas- countries. It brought the focus back to the tating effects it has on millions of Afghan ban and called for the prohibition to be children confirmed in law. G inform children and school teachers and The overall messages were: authorities of the ban on corporal pun- ishment in schools and the right of all G Say No! to violence against children. children to a violence free education.

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 45 South Asia

Mazar

Children were involved in all stages, includ- dren confirmed. The Afghanistan Indepen- ing a month of preparatory meetings and dent Human Rights Commission and chil- workshops. dren themselves called for legislation to pro- hibit corporal punishment in schools and SCS-N led the event and planning in con- hold teachers to account if they break the junction with the Ministry of Labour and law. Advocacy materials were distributed and Social Affairs. The Afghanistan Indepen- there was a high press presence. In response, dent Human Rights Commission and the a commitment was made to achieve this, Ministry of Education were partners in the with the Ministry of Education and the month of action. SC-UK, International Ministry of Justice saying they would start Rescue Committee, Child Fund the process of drafting the Bill. The response Afghanistan and PACE-A participated in was broadcast on national TV. planning meetings and supported elements of the month of action. Children and com- A provincial event was organised in Mazar, munity based child protection networks attended by nearly 300 participants, were involved in planning regional events. including representatives from provincial government and 100 children. Information A policy level event was held in Kabul to materials were distributed and children’s launch the month of action and call for leg- drawings, poetry and essays were exhibited. islation to prohibit corporal punishment in A collective letter was read by children to schools. It was attended by 400 people, the adults in positions of power about what including government officials and educa- should be done to stop violence against tion professionals. Progress since the UN them, especially in schools. Children Study was outlined and the Government’s demanded that the Governments listen to commitment to ending violence against chil- them and involve them in solutions to end

46 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence violence against them. They called upon More than 200 teachers, parents, children the Ministry of Education and school and religious leaders participated in an authorities to: event in Jalalabad. A girls’ high school was decorated with artwork against violence in G make ending violence against children society and in schools. Information materi- the highest priority als were distributed and an official ceremo- G outlaw all forms of violence against chil- ny was held which included letters from dren in all settings especially in schools children to government officials, singing,

G create an effective child protection sys- poetry and role play, all on the topic of pro- tem in community and school level. hibiting corporal punishment in school.

Adults made speeches explaining the root Two other events were planned – in causes of violence against children in Bamyian and Kabul – for November. Afghan society and approaches to end it at all levels of society. Three religious leaders spoke about Islamic teachings on non-vio- lence towards children, and recommenda- tions were made by Save the Children on ending corporal punishment in all settings, especially in schools.

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 47 Afghanistan: Press release following government commitment to enact legislation to prohibit corporal punishment in schools Kabul, 19 November 2008 MINISTERS COMMIT TO OUTLAW VIOLENCE IN SCHOOL

Beating and humiliation in school are a daily reality for many children in Afghanistan.There is today no law prohibiting violence from teachers, but in recent events politicians have committed to out- law violence in school.

In a series of high profile events around the country, children have had the opportunity to speak out their concerns about violence in school.They have told their stories to teachers, headmasters, politicians and other adults in events in Kabul, Jalalabad and Mazar-e-Sharif. Hundreds of teachers have listened and almost all national TV-channels have reported from the events. And politicians have promised an end to violence and that there will be a law prohibiting violence and humiliation in schools.

Save the Children Sweden-Norway is committed to help the children, teachers, parents, religious leaders and the government to implement a law that effectively stops all violence in all schools.We are advocating on all levels to ensure that such a law is accepted and enforced.

In Kabul, on 23 October, the deputy minister of education Mr. Sadiq Patman and H.E. Mohammed Wasil Noor Muhmand, Deputy Minister of Social Affairs said in front of 400 people and on nation- al TV that they commit to pass a law prohibiting violence in schools in Afghanistan.

In the event in Mazar-e-Sharif on 27 October the student councils of the schools in Dawlatabad read a collective letter to the present representatives of the Ministry of Education, urging them to take action right now to end violence against children.

On 28 October in Jalalabad, 230 people, including the assistant director of education Mr. Moham- mad Ibrahim Mia Khill and the assistant director of Social Affairs Mr.Alhaj Kamaludding heard sto- ries from children and made commitments to stop violence.

All in all 1 500 children contributed to the events in Afghanistan, speaking up against violence and telling their stories in writing and pictures.The campaign will end with an event in Bamyan on 18 December and an artwork exhibition in Istiqlal High School in Kabul on 19 November.

Save the Children Sweden-Norway has worked in Afghanistan since 2000.All Save the Children activities are anchored in the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child and therefore the pro- grams are child-inclusive. In our experience lasting change can only come if stakeholders and ben- eficiaries feel ownership and take responsibility.We work almost totally with Afghan staff and struc- tures.We work with the full trust of all actors: Children, parents, village councils, religious leaders, governors and ministers.

The Global Day of Action on Violence Against Children is the largest global campaign by children. It comes as governments worldwide meet at the UN to decide whether to take historic action to end violence against children. Save the Children is the largest independent organisation for children.

Press contact: Mats Lignell, +93 798 45 45 65 (English) or Fazel Jalil +93 798 45 45 01 (English, Dari, Pashto)

48 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 4. Action against sexual violence

Sexual abuse and exploitation was a component of many campaigns against violence in gen- eral. It featured, for example, in the Day of Action activities in Ecuador, Honduras, Pak- istan and Southern Sudan, described in section 2. In some countries, the Day of Action focussed specifically on forms of sexual violence. This section describes events in:

Africa: Ethiopia Uganda

South Asia: Nepal

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 49 Africa

Ethiopia Ethiopia

Two days of action focused on stopping Children had spoken openly sexual abuse and exploitation against children about their ideas.The chil- in Ethiopia – in Addis Ababa and in Adama. dren’s participation was very The event was the first Day of Action to be conducted in two regions simultaneously, and strong and all have spoken the biggest in terms of numbers of children about what they have gained. participating and the breadth of activities. Most children have promised On 18 October, in both cities, consultative to go out and tell others meetings were held with around 1,300 chil- what they know” dren. Children discussed the increasing Dawit,Arada kifleketema children’s parlia- trend of violence with particular emphasis ment member on sexual abuse and exploitation perpetrat- ed against children, ways to protect them- selves, and issues of accountability. “I was a facilitator,we were discussing on the abuses com- mitted on children and youth. “I have learnt a lot from the I did not expect heated dis- discussions today.We have cussions like we had now.We never engaged in this sort of have been discussing the issue discussion before.Today in past the time given to us. I did the form of games we have not expect very little children learnt many things and chil- to know about sexual abuses dren from different schools but they do know. I was impressed by their knowledge have shared their experience.

50 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence Africa

and I believe that they will be ments, NGO’s,Teachers, able to do more in teaching. Doctors and all other pro- Their ages are from 7 to 12. I fessionals engaged in differ- was very happy to know that ent works to say: save us! they knew all the things that I and protect us! from sexual didn’t know at their age.They and physical abuses: as we have gained this knowledge are tomorrows leaders of from media and the different Ethiopia our country” work that organizations do on joint message from children’s consultative different programs” meeting in Addis Ababa Abreham Tsegaye,Atse Naod Primary school Save the Children Alliance representative, Trond Jenson, Country Director of Save On 20 October, over 150 children marched in the Children Norway, welcomed partici- Adama town accompanied by a circus group. pants and stressed the need to put in place They wore T-shirts bearing the message “let’s a comprehensive child protection system, engage the boys”, and carried banners dis- to enforce laws and conventions, and to playing the two advocacy messages: “Let’s lis- make concerted efforts from all parties to ten to children and protect them from sexual stop the abuse of children and protect their abuse and exploitation” and “Men and boys rights. In her opening remarks, Mrs. are essential partners for ending sexual abuse Adanach Abiebie, Head of the Oromia and exploitation against children”. Regional State President’s Office, high- lighted Ethiopia’s ratification of the Con- A public gathering was also held, organised vention on the Rights of the Child and in collaboration with the Federal Ministry actions taken to implement children’s rights of Women’s Affairs, Save the Children Nor- in the country. She ended with a call to all way and Forum on Street Children stakeholders “to join hands together to con- Ethiopia Adama branch. It was attended by trol children’s sexual abuse and exploita- children, regional and federal government tion”. A model project on how to respond representatives, the police, non-govern- to sexually abused and exploited children in mental organisations and other concerned an integrated manner was presented at the people. Twenty-six children represented public gathering. those who had attended the consultative meeting; seven presented the recommenda- The public gathering at Adama was covered tions of the consultative meetings. by Ethiopian Television, Radio Ethiopia. and two major news papers. Live news was also “We children who are flow- broadcasted on FM Radio including the interview given by Dr. Bulti Guttema, Head ers of today and the fruits of of Children and Mothers Department at the tomorrow call: Govern- Ministry Women Affairs.

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 51 Africa

Uganda Uganda

A loose coalition of organisations Sexual abuse and violence against children against sexual abuse planned and imple- is a major threat to the wellbeing of children mented the day of action: Save the Chil- in Uganda. In 2005 alone, the Uganda Police dren in Uganda, World Vision Interna- Force recorded 5,693 cases of defilement and tional, Plan Uganda, Raising Voices, 22,000 children were involved in commercial African Network for the Prevention and sex.3 In 2000/2001 there were 65,000 mar- Protection against Child Abuse and ried children in Uganda.4 According to sta- Neglect (ANPPCAN) Uganda Chapter, tistics from Uganda Health and Demo- Defense for Children International, and graphic Survey 2006, only one in five chil- Concerned Parents Association. It was dren in Uganda is registered. In the absence decided to focus on raising awareness about of a national system for age verification: the link between birth registration and pro- tection from sexual violence, including G parents/guardians are usually the sole prosecution of perpetrators of child sexual arbiters of a child’s age, often resulting in abuse. girl children being given in marriage

3. Uganda Youth Development Link Report 4. Uganda Bureau of Statistics- UBOS report 2000–2001

52 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence Africa

G parents/guardians can collude with tion to parliament. A review of the sexual offenders to raise the age of the child, offences law was also carried out. frustrating investigations and due court A press statement was developed, bearing process in cases of defilement the logos of all coalition members to repre- G young adult perpetrators conceal their sent joint ownership of the issue. A press age in courts of law in order to be tried conference was held on 16 October to pro- in children’s courts and victims raise mote the Day of Action, together with their age where elements of consensual exclusive interviews. The Day of Action sexual relations are evident and the call for a national birth registration G many children are victims of child prosti- programme was addressed in live phone-in tution on account of falsification of age. talk shows on national radio (UBC) and a popular FM station based in Kampala As well as helping to protect children from (KFM) with a coverage of about 4 million. sexual abuse and bringing perpetrators to The petition, which stated “We the under- justice, birth registration helps secure chil- signed call for the implementation of an dren’s rights to their origin, nationality, edu- effective national birth registration pro- cation, health and a family environment. It gramme as a means to combat child sexual ensures that children who have committed abuse”, was signed by about 300 people offences are not subjected to the adult crim- over two days. A detailed message to the inal justice system and is a major source of Hon. Speaker of Parliament was written to statistics for national planning services. Birth accompany the petition. registration can also be important in secur- ing universal primary education and com- A procession of about 250 people, includ- bating HIV/AIDS. ing children from six schools and led by a brass band, carried petition banners and The key message of the Day of Action was: placards with messages against violence “National birth registration is the first step in against children to Parliament. The petition fighting sexual abuse against children.” The was presented to the Hon. Edward Sekan- advocacy messages embedded within this di, speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, by message were: 16 year old Beatrice Nassanga, accompa-

G Protection for children is justice for society. nied by child representatives from each of the participating schools. G Sexual abuse of children is unacceptable and preventable. The Hon. Speaker made a commitment to G Protection of children is our collective forward the petition to the legislators in responsibility. Parliament for appropriate actions to be

G Corruption perpetuates child sexual abuse. taken. He also promised to put the petition banner at the entrance to The House to The main activities were raising awareness “inform others who are not here of what through the media, and presenting a peti- you are asking for”.

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 53 Uganda: Press statement to launch the campaign

STATEMENT AT THE LAUNCH OF THE CAMPAIGN AGAINST CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE

I welcome you all to this press briefing on the launch of the campaign against child sexual abuse. It is a joint campaign by Save the Children in Uganda, Plan Uganda, Raising Voices, World Vision, ANPPCAN Uganda Chapter, Defense for Children International and Concerned Parents Association. This campaign is part of the glob- al campaign to end violence against children. We commend our government for the progress made in protecting children against sexual abuse in recent years. There have been reforms of a number of laws on sexual abuse and exploitation thus providing better protection for both boys and girls. Institutions have been established and existing ones strengthened through legis- lation and resource allocation. The Family and Children Court and the Family and Child Protection units in the Uganda Police are now facilitated to address reported cas- es of violence against children. Government programmes such as UPE and USE have provided protection for children who would otherwise be at risk of violations such as early marriages / early sexual activity due to not being at school. These interventions are highly commendable. In Uganda, child sexual abuse is the most rampant form of crime5. Over the past five years, an annual average of 10,000 children have been sexually abused6. In 2001, there were 65,000 married children in Uganda7. In 2005, a total of 22,000 children were involved in commercial sex8. The existence of child sexual abuse is a gross violation of children’s rights. Ugan- da is signatory to and therefore bound by national and international instruments pro- viding for protection of the rights of all children from violence, abuse and neglect. The legislations and international conventions that have been ratified by Uganda include:

G The Uganda Constitution, 1995

G The Children’s Act Cap 59

G The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, Article 7 (1)

5. Annual crime statistics of the Uganda Police force 6. Annual crime statistics of the Uganda Police force 7. Uganda Demographic and Health Survey 2001 8. UYDEL survey on child labor and commercial sexual exploitation

54 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence G The African Charter on Human and People’s rights, Article 18 (3)

G The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, Article 24 (2)

The unacceptably high incidence of child sexual abuse in Uganda undermines the gains registered by Government in attaining Universal Primary Education. It also impedes the achievement of the millennium development targets on primary educa- tion for all and combating HIV-AIDS in Uganda Notwithstanding the recently strengthened law on sexual offences against children, it is the considered view of the organizations represented here that the road to protec- tion of children from sexual abuse in Uganda is still wrought with numerous challenges one of which is the lack of a national birth registration program. According to statistics from Uganda Health and Demographic Survey- UHDS 2006, only 1 in every 5 children in Uganda is registered. The current birth registration coverage stands at 24% in urban areas and 21% in rural areas and below 40% in general. In the absence of a national system for age verification, many children are married off by parents and guardians. In addition, many parents of child sexual abuse survivors accept bribes and connive with alleged offenders to raise the child’s age to pervert the course of justice. Further more, many children in Uganda are victims of child prosti- tution on account of failure to verify their age. These scenarios emphasize the need for an effective birth registration programme Uganda has a Births and Deaths Registration Act 1970; but it is out of date, hav- ing been overtaken by changes ushered in by the 1995 Constitution. Currently there is no explicit policy for birth registration with defined priorities and strategies. Birth registration by Government is unaffordable to the majority of people and lim- ited to the office of the Births and Deaths registrar. Birth registration by medical per- sonnel at health facilities is inaccessible to the majority of expectant mothers. Exist- ing birth registration services at community level are provided entirely by non-gov- ernment actors and very limited in geographical scope. At this juncture, the Civil Society Organizations against Child Sexual Abuse appeal to Government of Uganda to urgently:

G Enact a National Birth registration policy

G Reform the Births and Deaths Registration ACT of 1970

G Institute a National Birth registration program providing registration at commu- nity level and issuance of birth certificate at district level.

I thank you

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 55 South Asia

Nepal

Save the Children Alliance in Nepal, in its recommendations were discussed, coordination with the District Child Welfare and a written commitment of support in Board and other local government and non executing the advocacy plan was made government agencies, observed the day of by stakeholders, including the Chief action in Surkhet district, a remote district District Officer, Chief of District Police with a high rate of child marriage. A two year Office, Chiefs of District Education and advocacy plan was launched against child health office, human and child rights marriage, with the slogan “Elimination of activists, child club members and mem- Child Marriage is Possible”. The following ber of other local groups. activities were conducted while launching the G A local drama group performed drama advocacy plan: portraying the culture of child marriage and its implications for children. G A workshop with key stakeholders was conducted in Birendra Nagar, in which G A press conference with national and about 100 people participated. The draft local media sought to secure their sup- advocacy plan was shared and endorsed port for the advocacy plan to address by local stakeholders, the UN Study and child marriage.

Nepal

56 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence South Asia

Nepal: national news coverage of the campaign against child marriage CAMPAIGN TO CREATE CHILD MARRIAGE-FREE DISTRICTS BY 2009 LAUNCHED

Save the Children (SC) launched a one-year Campaign against Child Marriage to mark the annual "World Day of Action against Violence" at a function in Surkhet Monday.

"Child marriage is a direct violation of child rights and human rights which leads to children, espe- cially girls, becoming more vulnerable to abuse and exploitation.The practice is highly prevalent in South Asia where one in three girls get married before the age of 18," said a press release issued by Save the Children on the occasion.

Studies show that an estimated 34% of total marriages held in the country are of children below 15 years of age.

The release further said child marriage has had adverse impact in the lives of both boys and girls, "but its impact is far more severe on girls".

Health problems, unwanted pregnancies and deprivation of education are some of the key issues faced by such children.

The organisation working in child welfare sector said that child marriage is one of the contribut- ing factors for high rates of maternal and infant mortality in Nepal.

So the Campaign against Child Marriage, according to SC, aims to declare two districts selected under the campaign as child marriage-free districts by the end of 2009.

For the purpose SC will work with the Village Child Protection Committee as the focal body to coordinate campaign activities.

"The campaign will include mass sensitisation and media mobilisation activities to change the mind- set of decision makers at village level regarding marriage of children such as parents, community leaders, and religious leaders and, sometimes, children themselves," the release added. The CDO of Surkhet Bal Dev Prasad Bhatta said that the campaign was going to be a challenge not just for SC but for the administration as well because the concept and practice of child marriage has acceptance from society.

CDO Bhatta's concerns were echoed by the Deputy Superintendent of Police Govinda Kumar Shah who questioned the role of the police in such circumstances. He argued that it would be difficult for the police to intervene when there was acceptance within the society. nepalnews.com ag Oct 20 08.

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 57 58 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 5. Lessons learned

In reporting on the events organised for the 2008 Day of Action, participants reflected on what had been successful, what had been less successful, and what lessons had been learned for future days of action and advocacy for children’s rights generally.

Child participation

G Involving children properly takes considerable time. The amount of time necessary depends on many factors, e.g. whether they live in urban or rural areas, whether or not they have spoken out on children’s rights before, etc.

G Participation is most effective when children are engaged from the beginning, includ- ing in the planning stages, so that they can be appropriately sensitised and supported to allow them to raise their voices in an authentic and confident way.

G The presentation of letters/petitions by children to high level officials was found to be particularly powerful, especially when planning ensures that officials respond directly to children’s requests.

Awareness raising

G Well prepared briefings are invaluable in engaging people beyond the level of catch- phrases and slogans. These are most useful when available in different languages and when the level of detail is appropriate for specific target audiences (general public, pol- icymakers, parliamentarians, etc).

G Variety and spectacle are important in keeping the attention and interest of participants and the media. Visual programmes, and the use of dance, music, drama, etc are partic- ularly effective.

Using the media

G Distributing press releases and other materials can sometimes be insufficient to gener- ate media interest.

G The presence of high level government officials and/or celebrities is useful in raising the profile of an event so that it attracts national media coverage. This then gives added weight to commitments made by government officials during the event, and encourages accountability for their promises.

G Visual programmes can keep the attention and interest of the media.

G Sensitising particular media personnel on the issues and including them in the planning stages can ensure sustained interest in the campaign.

Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence 59 Working with government and other high level officials

G Engaging with ministers and parliamentarians during the early stages of planning con- tributes to successful outcomes. It helps governments to take ownership of the issue, and by the time of the public event politicians can be sufficiently informed and sensitised that they are in agreement with the aims of the campaign and ready to take action, make firm commitments, etc.

G The involvement and support of government in a programme ensures the sustainabili- ty of that programme in terms of public ownership and provides a good ground for pol- icy advocacy.

G Bringing together national politicians and people working at the level of regional and international human right mechanisms can help to foster understanding among politi- cians that the recommendations are coming from many levels.

G Working directly with politicians who are in a position to propose legal reform, sends a powerful message when they make a commitment to do so and facilitates the process of getting draft laws into parliament.

Planning

G Planning is very time consuming and can benefit from a focal point dedicated to the campaign as well as a strong team.

G Working with partner organisations is hugely beneficial. It increases the knowledge and skills base on which to draw, especially in terms of child participation, and supports the formation of networks and coalitions that can be sustained beyond the immediate cam- paign. Collaboration between NGOs and international agencies can be especially effec- tive in state systems where influencing national government and policies is a huge task.

G Attention should be given to all aspects of the Day of Action during the planning stages, including how to maximise the use of limited budgets, accommodating projected num- bers of participants (e.g. in terms of seating requirements, printing needs), systems for report back from event organisers, the scheduling of events (e.g. in the context of oth- er demands on politicians’ time) and follow-up activities to build on what is achieved.

60 Save the Children’s Worldwide Day of Action against Violence

Save the Children fights for children’s rights. We deliver immediate and lasting improvements to children’s lives worldwide.

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