Muscat: Lack of data on the degree of Child abuse in Oman hinders the implementation of evidence-based prevention and intervention, according to a researcher at the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU).
Prof. Lamk Al Lamki of the College of Medicine & Health Sciences at the SQU said that there were no statistics to indicate the frequency of ill-treatment of children. "It is possible that in Oman, because of culture and religion, the magnitude of child maltreatment is lower," believes the academician.
"Children are deprived of their rights in many ways and it is a universal problem," he added. However, he stressed for the need to carry out research employing rigorous methodology.
Prof. Al Lamki further pointed out that gathering more data on the prevailing situation in Oman would be an essential first step. "The Research Council of Oman (TRC) should perhaps consider calling for more research on the different types and causes of child abuse in Oman," he suggested.
He added that TRC had received, and is considering, one research proposal on this topic. "We hope more research studies would be conducted to shed light on the situation in Oman that would have direct bearing on prevention of harm to children, and also lead to the treatment of the adults involved."
He also advocates a separate research to highlight the specific forms of child abuse and maltreatment that may exist in Oman.
The UN General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in 1989 after ten years of comprehensive negotiations between experts from governments, non-governmental organisations, various advocates of human rights and lawyers, as well as health specialists, social workers, and educators.
Prof. Al Lamki remarked that child abuse can be physical, sexual, or emotional neglect. "Not providing for the child's needs, is also a form of abuse," he said.
Approximately 5.5 million children are neglected annually and three million cases of other incidents of child abuse are reported each year globally.
"We have to be very resolute and diligent in protecting our children against all forms of exploitation as our society is rapidly changing and young children are increasingly spending hours on the Internet and in Internet chat rooms," the SQU professor cautioned.
The Ministry of Social Development has formed executive committees to celebrate 2012 as the ‘Year of the Child' in Oman, and will establish a cultural centre for children to enhance children's capabilities and polish their skills.
The Ministry has also opened a Child Help Line that both children and adults can access.
