Marc Lubner speaks about child protection in South Africa
South Africa still not heeding the constitution or their consciences as children continue to face violence in their homes, schools and communities.
Despite having an improved legal framework to protect their rights- children in South Africa (SA) are facing increasing threats to their well-being.
As the country observes Child Protection Week, a youth development organisation, Afrika Tikkun Group, based in Hyde Park, highlights the urgency with which SA must face an inconvenient truth.
Marc Lubner, Group CEO of Afrika Tikkun says that as an organisation they develop programmes that uplift youth in vulnerable communities. “If we fail to raise our children in a safe, productive environment, there is no point in planning for the future because it will perish with a generation we failed to protect.
“Child Protection Week should not just be about raising awareness about child abuse, neglect, and exploitation. It should be about organised action against these evils and creating holistic solutions that unite people towards the common goal of improving the lives of children to grow them into adults that can lead SA to a brighter future.”
He pointed out that in South Africa, 392 children were killed in just 90 days in 2021, while another 394 were victims of attempted murder, according to the most recent crime data. That same year, 2,048 additional children were physically assaulted. Those were just the reported cases.
“We need to create communities that are supportive of children and the promotion of their rights, including policing, awareness, and public education about children’s rights, and organisations that support the development of children as a priority.”
He emphasised that child protection is not only the responsibility of parents or guardians but also a societal obligation. Every adult has a role to play in fostering an environment where children can grow and flourish free from any form of violence, abuse, or neglect. It starts by creating a supportive and nurturing environment that enables children to thrive.
“Let us all commit to protecting the rights of children, providing them with a safe and secure environment, giving them love and affection, and advocating for their well-being. Remember that every child deserves to feel protected, valued, and respected and that we must ensure that every child is safe, healthy, and happy,” concludes Lubner.
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