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By Rolynda Jonathan
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has released child protection reports for the North Pacific region, emphasizing the importance of children, the most precious resource.
UNICEF released the reports for Palau and the Marshall Islands with the general theme of “Value and protect our precious resource: Our children”.
The study shows that although 92% of children in Palau feel safe at home, 22% do not feel safe in the community and 30% are being bullied at school.
Despite strong traditional practices in the Marshall Islands, the study shows that increased urbanization and changes in lifestyles is breaking down those practices that have generally protected children.
The study further emphasized the need to strengthen the juvenile justice system and break down the silence of child abuse.
Minister Heine of the Marshall Islands says the report provides a roadmap required to ensure the protection of children’s rights and welfare.
UNICEF is now in the process of launching a similar report for the Federated States of Micronesia.