Protecting Children from Sexual Violence: Empowering Adults
Family Affairs Minister Lisa Paus recently stressed the importance of adults taking responsibility in protecting children from sexual violence. In an encouraging tone, she emphasized that every child is surrounded by potential guardians who can intervene if they step up and acknowledge their roles. At the launch of the "Don't Shirk Your Responsibility" campaign in Berlin, Paus highlighted the role of insecurity as a common excuse for adults to dodge their duty.
Lisa Paus encouraged everyone to seek out information on help services, aiming to equip adults with the necessary responses and communication skills to protect children effectively. "Get knowledge, read the brochures, and actually take responsibility," she urged her fellow adults. Openly discussing sexual violence with family, friends, and community members can create a safer environment for children, she added.
Adults should listen actively and ask questions when they notice potential warning signs, as suggested by Kerstin Claus, the federal commissioner for abuse. Adopting such an approach allows children to feel heard, ensuring they know their voices matter. In 2022, Cologne police reported nearly 17,200 instances of childhood sexual violence among children under the age of 14, where the victims and suspected offenders were frequently acquaintances.
Adult education and organizational safeguarding are vital tools in preventing child sexual abuse. MO-NACA and Stewards of Children both promote programs that educate adults on proper recognition and responses to potential abuse situations, underlining the importance of adult education in child protection. Familiarizing oneself with physical and behavioral signs of abuse can help adults identify and respond appropriately.
Regarding communication with children, open conversations and teaching boundaries are essential. By talking about feelings, inappropriate touch, and sexual abuse, children receive the language they need to discuss the issue. Teaching children to say 'no', practice refusal scenarios, and identify trusted adults provides them with the tools they need to stay safe.
By combining these strategies, adults can drastically reduce the risk of child sexual abuse and ensure children can grow and thrive in safe environments.
