Fatshimetrie, October 20, 2024 – A far-reaching announcement was made today in Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Indeed, a global ministerial conference on the elimination of violence against children is planned in Bogota, Colombia. This initiative underlines the crucial importance of protecting children from physical, psychological and sexual violence that affects them in an alarming way throughout the world.
During a preparatory meeting organized by the Ministry of Gender, Family and Children, Minister Léonnie Kandolo Omoyi stressed the urgent need to combat violence against children in the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to her, many children are exposed to situations of violence, with an even greater vulnerability among girls. This worrying reality requires coordinated and urgent action to protect children and ensure them a safe and fulfilling future.
The DRC, despite the challenges posed by humanitarian crises and armed conflicts, shows an unwavering determination to protect its children. The country’s commitment to combating child violence is welcomed by international partners such as UNICEF and WHO, who actively support this vital cause. The Global Ministerial Conference on the Elimination of Violence against Children, scheduled for Bogota in November 2024, will be an opportunity to strengthen actions and collaborations to eradicate this scourge that affects millions of children around the world.
The preparatory work for this conference mobilizes not only the Ministry of Gender, Family and Children, but also other key sectors such as health, national education and new citizenship. This integrated and multidisciplinary approach is essential to effectively address the different aspects of violence against children and put in place prevention and protection strategies adapted to each context.
Beyond the numbers and statistics, it is crucial to remember that behind each case of violence against a child lies a life turned upside down, broken dreams and a compromised future. As a society, as an international community, we have a moral and ethical duty to act to end this suffering and provide children with a safe and caring environment in which they can grow and thrive.
The Global Ministerial Conference on the Elimination of Violence against Children is a crucial step in this fight for a better future for all children. Together, united in our commitment and determination, we can make a difference and protect those who are most vulnerable in our society.