UNICEF Pacific Conducts First Regional Child Protection Workshop in Suva, Fiji
Government and community leaders from four Pacific countries met for the first time in September to discuss child protection issues and explore strategies for addresses child protection challenges in their respective countries. Representatives from Fiji, Samoa, Kiribati, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands gathered at the first Regional Child Protection Workshop in Suva, Fiji which was facilitated by the UNICEF Pacific Child Protection Team. In accordance with UNICEF Pacific’s 5-year Multi-Country Programme Strategy beginning in 2008, the UNICEF Pacific Child Protection Team conducted Child Protection Baseline Research projects in Fiji, Kiribati, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands. Samoa is also soon to embark on its own baseline research initiative. The research was conducted in partnership with local governments, NGOs and communities. The research findings, once compiled at the end of the year, will form the basis on which effective child protection strategies can be formulated for the duration of the Programme. UNICEF Pacific Representative, Dr. Isiye Ndombi emphasized the role of the workshop in meeting the protection needs of children in the Pacific. Dr. Ndombi assured participants of UNICEF Pacific’s commitment to providing assistance to make a positive change in child protection regulations, processes and policies. “As a result of the Programme Strategy document, child protection issues are being more systematically addressed in the Pacific region than ever before,” said Dr. Ndombi in his opening address. “I know that many of you were involved in the development of this Regional Strategy back in 2006 and 2007 and we are pleased to continue working with you in taking the Strategy forward to action.” At the workshop UNICEF Pacific Child Protection Officers and Baseline Researchers presented their findings to participants and facilitated discussions on the strengths and challenges of child protection in their respective countries. The improvement of birth registration services, modifying and enforcing national legislation involving children as victims, offenders and witnesses as well as better interagency coordination for child welfare were some of the significant issues discussed. Country representatives then contributed to formulating annual work plans for the UNICEF Child Protection Field Offices in their respective countries. Representatives shared their concerns and suggested better strategies for addressing challenges for child protection, outlining specific activities in which UNICEF Pacific could assist them in protecting children from violence, abuse and neglect. With the successful consultations and partnerships arising from the workshop, the UNICEF Pacific Child Protection Team looks to the year ahead with great anticipation, eager to continue building partnerships with Pacific governments, NGOs and communities in ensuring that children are safe in their homes, schools and communities.
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