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The city of Salé launched a national research initiative on violence against children, spearheaded by the Ministry of Solidarity, Integration, and Family in partnership with both national and international organizations. This vital project aims to deepen understanding of this pressing issue and develop effective strategies for intervention.
A New Phase in Child Protection
At the heart of discussions held at the Abir Raqqaq conference hall was the unveiling of this national survey, a collaboration involving various government sectors and key international stakeholders dedicated to child welfare. Minister of Solidarity, Integration, and Family, Naima Ibn Yahya, underscored that this project aligns with the King’s royal directives aimed at enhancing the status of children and fortifying their protection, as well as the various constitutional and international commitments of Morocco in this realm.
Minister Ibn Yahya highlighted the collaborative framework that includes partnerships with the National Observatory for Human Development, the National Observatory for Children’s Rights, and the High Commission for Planning, alongside UNICEF. She stressed the importance of this cooperation in evaluating public policies and gathering reliable data.
Rising Concerns Over Child Violence
The alarming increase in reported cases of child violence has made the need for comprehensive research even more urgent. In 2024 alone, there were 9,948 reported cases of victims, with over 61% being female. This escalation further emphasizes the necessity of a national study to accurately measure and analyze the phenomenon’s scope and evolution.
Othmane Kaïr, President of the National Observatory for Human Development, remarked that the project signifies a critical step toward addressing this multifaceted social issue that impacts the very future of the community. He firmly asserted that the well-being of children stands as a cornerstone in the foundation of a supportive social state.
The Role of Accurate Data in Shaping Policies
Aiyash Khlaaf, Secretary-General of the High Commission for Planning, acknowledged that providing current statistical information is essential for understanding the conditions of children and identifying vulnerabilities. He noted that this research will yield reliable data on the dynamics of violence against children, which will inform and direct public policy.
UNICEF’s representative in Morocco echoed these sentiments, stating that protecting children from all forms of violence is a core societal concern. She highlighted that this initiative reflects a shared understanding of the importance of accurate data in reinforcing protective systems, while keeping the best interests of the child at the forefront of this effort.
The meeting included a presentation outlining the research goals, which aim to establish a national database, comprehend the factors contributing to violence, document its forms and contexts, analyze its impacts, and support the evaluation of public policies. Furthermore, it will propose actionable recommendations to enhance prevention, protection, and care mechanisms.
The proceedings concluded with the signing of a memorandum of understanding among all partners, aimed at framing institutional cooperation and mobilizing the necessary expertise and resources to achieve this research through a collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach.
SEO Keywords:
- child protection
- violence against children
- Morocco
- UNICEF
- national research
- public policy
- child welfare
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Salé launches a vital national initiative on violence against children, enhancing data collection and intervention strategies.
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A groundbreaking initiative in Salé aims to tackle violence against children, paving the way for enhanced protection and informed policies.
