Children Rights and Protection

Abstract

Introduction: It has been realized that children are being marginalized in one way or the other and it is important to call attention on the promotion and protection of the rights of children, in order to help them fit in society and for child survivors to reintegrate themselves as better individuals into societies.

Purpose: The purpose of this work is to address violations of children's rights and the need for the protection and promotion of children.

Methodology: The qualitative methodology of research was used to gather information. This work was based on professional experience in the humanitarian field using methods such as observations, unstructured interviews with children aged 12 to 18 during facilitation sessions, working with children in child-friendly spaces and safe spaces for survivors of Gender-Based Violence. Selection criteria included children who possess the knowledge, abilities and personal attributes required for them to be able understand the questions directed towards. It also included children who have been affected by the current crisis in Cameroon.

Findings: It was realized that children need to be safeguarded and protected against all forms of harm or violence. Children especially in conflict zones tend to be more exposed to violations of human rights than those children who are located in areas which are not affected by conflict. Some of the human rights violations experienced by these children include physical violence/torture, emotional/psychological violence due to traumatic experiences such as rape, and economic violence.

Unique Contribution to theory and Practice: In theory, this piece of work is useful to the academic as it contributes to the existing body of literature or knowledge. In practice, it identifies child protection concerns and addresses the need to protect them. As concerns policy recommendation, the main target was institutional frameworks such as humanitarian organizations, policymakers and the community, considering they play a vital role in contributing to children's welfare. To the institutions, collaboration is encouraged both at the national and international levels. This would make it easier for child protection concerns to be identified and addressed. Acceptance is vital in every community, especially to survivors and serves as a good breeding ground for children's welfare and wellbeing.