Statistics showed as many as 2,000 cases of child abuse recorded each year in Vietnam, including 1,500 molestations. It is said that more drastic measures should be taken to strictly deal with violations.
Data from the Ministry of Labour Invalids and Social Affairs revealed children account for 65 percent of sexual abuse, with 57 percent being girls aging 12-15. Various agencies are tasked with addressing the problem, but as the saying goes, too many cooks will spoil the broth.
Huynh Thanh Canh, Deputy from Binh Thuan province: “The role of local authority is the most vital. If there is no involvement of child protecting organizations and relating agencies, the detection and settlement of child abuse will not be conducted properly.”
More adjustments in investigation, prosecution as well as legal documents are necessary to avoid missing out criminals. Especially, stricter punishments should be made. Responsibilities in taking care of children should be spoken in more detail as it is a matter of public concern.
Nguyen Huu Cau, Deputy from Nghe An province: “Stricter punishments should be made for child abuse criminals. If not, the children will not be fully protected. And that is our fault.”
Currently, a hotline to report child abuse has been put into operation. Increasing public services to protect children, with focus on educating life skills and self-protection skills for children is needed.-VNA
