Bahrain to launch global report on children

Bahrain is one of eight countries assigned by the UN to launch the International Conference Report on children, torture and other forms of violence held in Tampere, Finland, late last year.

Dr Khalid Alloush, Regional Representative of the UN said at a press conference held yesterday: "Child abuse is a very touchy subject and should be dealt with utmost care."

The international conference was held between November 27 and December 2, 2001, and was attended by the representatives of 80 countries, six of which were Arabs.

Hassan Moosa, the Regional Representative of the World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT) said: "Violence is committed against children in both private and public settings by parents, caretakers, educators and state officials of all kind."

The other seven countries that have launched the report simultaneously with Bahrain are India, the Philippines, Senegal, Palestine, Columbia, Peru and Switzerland.

The simultaneous press conference is organised by the UN in cooperation with the OMCT. The Bahrain Centre for Human Rights (BCHR) participated in the conference as well.

Abdul Hadi Khawaja, member of the BCHR said: "It is an honour for Bahrain to be recognised for its strong opinions and actions regarding human rights. The appointment came after an international recognition that the country is a leader in human rights. But, Bahrain still does not have a law concerning child abuse."

However, the centre is preparing for a national conference, aimed at raising awareness against child abuse. "Children should be protected against any form of violence. It is a nation's job and a world concern that child abuse should be eradicated," he said.