Since January this year seven horrifying cases of children falling to their deaths from high-rise buildings have been recorded. Quite a few cases have been the result of parental neglect and there can be no excuse for this.
As sad and heartbreaking as it is — given that children lose their lives and this is punishment enough for some parents — the incident must receive the full attention of the law. Negligence is a form of abuse, punishable by law. The consequences are determined by the UAE's legal system since it is treated as a misdemeanour. Of course, no penalty can be worse than losing a child and the court does show degrees of sensitivity, but the process is geared towards parents illustrating more responsibility towards the safety and security of their children.
The much awaited Child Rights Law, due to be out soon, will be enforced. Parents please be aware of your basic responsibilities.
