The Ministry of Human Improvement, Household Assist, and Gender Affairs, in partnership with the Nationwide Fee for Households and Youngsters (NCFC), has issued a joint assertion condemning all acts of sexual violence in opposition to youngsters in Belize.
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The assertion comes amid current stories of disturbing assaults involving each girls and boys, which have sparked public outrage and renewed requires motion to guard the nation’s most weak residents.
Particularly, Belize’s former Ambassador to Cuba, Stated Badi Guerra, was granted bail final Thursday after showing earlier than the Justice of the Peace’s courtroom in Benque Viejo del Carmen on a number of severe fees, together with sexual assault involving a male minor.
“Sexual violence in opposition to youngsters is a grave violation of their rights, dignity, and well-being,” the discharge mentioned. “It causes lifelong trauma and undermines the very material of our society. Such acts are unacceptable beneath any circumstances and mustn’t ever be excused or minimized, whatever the alleged perpetrator’s social, political, or skilled standing.”
The Ministry and NCFC are calling on legislation enforcement to conduct speedy and thorough investigations into all allegations of kid sexual abuse, and on the judiciary to problem well timed and acceptable sentences that mirror the seriousness of such crimes. In addition they urged households, communities, and people to talk out, report suspected abuse, and help survivors.
“No particular person – whether or not an extraordinary citizen or a high-ranking official – is above the legislation,” the assertion emphasised. “Perpetrators of sexual violence in opposition to youngsters should face the total weight of justice.”
The Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to:
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Strengthening little one safety methods
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Offering psychosocial and different help companies to survivors
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Collaborating with companions on prevention, schooling, and consciousness initiatives
The companies additionally appealed to the media and public to report responsibly, with sensitivity to survivors’ identities and dignity.
Anybody with data or suspicion of kid abuse is urged to contact the Division of Human Providers at 227-7451, 227-2057, or the toll-free quantity 0-800-PROTECT (0-800-776-8328).
“The Ministry and NCFC will proceed to champion the rights, welfare, and growth of Belizean youngsters and households,” the discharge concluded.
