On the occasion of International Child’s Day.. Minister of Social Development: Continue strengthening efforts in support of protecting and preserving children’s rights

19-11-2023

His Excellency Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al-Asfoor, Minister of Social Development, confirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain is witnessing significant progress in the field of protecting and preserving children’s rights guaranteed by the Constitution, noting the role played by all official, private and civil bodies to achieve the highest levels of protection for children, in order to consolidate their rights to education. Health, protection and care in a positive and safe environment, preserving their future. This came on the occasion of International Children’s Day, where the Minister of Social Development indicated the high level of interest that the Kingdom of Bahrain attaches to children’s rights, through relevant modern and advanced laws and legislation, to ensure sound upbringing at the various stages of his life, foremost of which is the issuance of the Restorative Justice Law for Children and their protection from mistreatment. , concerned with the protection of children under the age of eighteen, as this law is considered a qualitative leap in the protection of children in the Kingdom of Bahrain. He said that the law on restorative justice for children and protecting them from abuse has enhanced the importance and role of the Ministry’s Child Protection Center, which works in accordance with laws and legislation with all relevant authorities, as it is the central body concerned with child protection, evaluating and following up on children who have been subjected to abuse, in addition to following up on children. The offender is at risk, through the availability of policies, legislation, programs and services that ensure the protection, survival and development of children, meet their needs and care in an appropriate environment, and provide them with a correct and balanced upbringing taking into account the best interest of the child, in addition to raising the level of awareness in the family and society about children’s issues. The Minister added that in addition to this, the child help and support line 998 has been activated, which operates 24 hours a day to receive calls from children or others regarding cases of exposure to abuse or danger. It also provides guidance, active listening, and referral services to the relevant authorities when needed. The Minister of Social Development stated that the Kingdom of Bahrain is always keen to protect children, as it has activated all national laws and international agreements to preserve their future, as they are the first nucleus in building society and the pillar of future generations, pointing out that the Ministry of Social Development is moving forward through its community and strategic partnership, to open horizons. I welcome the strengthening of efforts aimed at protecting and developing childhood, to ensure a better future for children.