Keeping the children safe

THE recent revelations of vulnerable children suffering abuse and harm in homes intended to provide them with shelter and care are heartbreaking. As the Covid-19 crisis continues to expose and amplify gaps and limitations of Malaysia’s welfare and social protection systems, the risk factors for neglect, abuse and violence have risen to unprecedented levels, exposing children across the country to situations that threaten their health, wellbeing and safety.

As seen in the #JusticeForBella case, children living with disabilities are particularly exposed due to the disruption of community, social support and caregiver services, and the need to be in confinement. Children’s rights to protection and safety are clearly affected and jeopardised by the ongoing crisis.