Roundtable Discussion on the Jordanian Penal CodeYour Excellency Dr. Salah Al-Bashir, Minister of Justice Ladies and Gentlemen, Our meeting here today is to focus on ensuring that Jordanian legislation works for the protection of We still have more work ahead of us as violence against children still exists in all parts of the world, including in the Kingdom. It ranges from mild corporal punishment to harsher forms, and can be found everywhere – in homes and schools, to detention centers and the work place. The consequences can be devastating on a child. Violence and abuse can kill; more often they result in poor physical and mental health, deny a child an education, or lead to homelessness and vagrancy. It is worthy to point out here, that if and when they have children of their own, abused children are more likely to subject them to some form of abuse. It is a viscous circle with impact also on the next generation of children. We all have a responsibility towards our children, and UNICEF is mandated by the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) to support countries to protect its young ones. Article 19 of the CRC highlights the actions states should take in this regard. UNICEF seeks to support countries in building a protective environment for children by addressing attitudes, behaviour, and practices: In societies where all forms of violence against children are taboo, and where the rights of the child are broadly respected, children are more likely to be protected. Here, I would like to commend the work Her Majesty Queen Rania is doing in the area of child protection. The National Council for Family Affairs, headed by Her Majesty, works with partners, such as UNICEF, to review legislation and propose amendments after consulting with experts, such as yourselves. Regarding practices, the Family Protection Department should be congratulated for the good work it is doing in addressing child abuse and dealing with children victims of abuse. We can work together on enhancing a protective environment for the child by government commitment, breaking the silence about violence and having open and frank discussions in the media and in civil society: Children need to be encouraged to speak up about protection issues affecting them or other children. Two weeks ago, children here spoke on the airwaves of Children need information and knowledge to protect themselves. They also need safe and protective channels through which they can express themselves. The enforcement of legislation and building the capacities of health workers, teachers, police officers, social workers, and others who interact with children on a regular basis, are also other elements that go into building a protective environment. Most important, investing in the skills and capacity of the family is crucial to child protection as the family is at the front line to provide protection to its children. A protective environment for children requires an effective monitoring system that records the incidence and nature of child abuse and allows for informed and strategic responses. Thus, services for victims of abuse are essential to provide care and non-discriminatory access to basic social services. Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, Thank you.
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