Child Protection
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© G Pirozzi/UNICEF Egypt |
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UNICEF aims at implementing sub-national initiatives (in Upper Egypt, Cairo, and Alexandria) which tackle child protection in an integrated manner. |
Country Setting
Since endorsing the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in 1990, Egypt has made significant progress towards addressing children's rights and achieving several Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Yet millions of Egyptian children remain subject to violence, abuse and exploitation. Their situation is exacerbated by poverty, family breakdown, a lack of awareness of their rights, and a lack of skills to prepare them for adult life. Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) is a widespread practice.
Issues
○ The phenomenon of working children is increasing. Over 20% of children aged between 6 and 14 work, usually without pay; more than 70% are boys.
○ The number of street children in Egyptian cities is estimated at between 600,000 and 1 million. Street girls are highly vulnerable to sexual abuse, rape, and pregnancy.
○ There is social acceptance of violence and abuse of children, both in the family and in schools. Physical punishment and threats of violence are widely practiced.
○ Recent data shows that 77% of girls aged 15-17 have undergone FGM/C. 75% of the practices are performed by trained medical personnel.
UNICEF in Action
The Child Protection programme aims to place the protection of children from violence, abuse and exploitation more prominently on the national agenda. Emphasis is on working children, street children, children exposed to violence in schools, and girls exposed to the risk of FGM/C.
National Data and Monitoring System
UNICEF is supporting the creation of a national database on children at risk, including vital indicators on child labour, street children, and violence against children.
Prevention and Protection Mechanisms
UNICEF supports the development of a sound legal framework for protecting children, in line with the revised Child Law. This includes establishing a comprehensive prevention and protection mechanism for detecting, reporting and evaluating the support provided to children at risk and those suffering from abuse, including FGM/C.
Community Based Initiatives
Street Children: UNICEF supports services for street children with a focus on girls and young street mothers, providing them with psycho-social support, rehabilitation, educational and vocational services, and counseling for HIV/AIDS.
Violence Against Children: The goal to abandon FGM/C by 2010 is being pursued in several ways. Community campaigns are conducted to build support to end the practice, while efforts are made to involve young people.
Monitoring Children At Risk: UNICEF supports initiatives in Upper Egypt, Alexandria and Cairo which address the root issues (such as family break-up and poverty) that put children at risk.
