THE Rights of the Child Commission (RCC) acknowledges the significance of the observance of International Day Against Sexual Violence. Sexual violence is regrettably a reality that plagues many societies and Guyana is not immune from this. Too often there are matters brought before the courts and children are taken for counselling because of trauma and discomfort resulting from such an experience. Apart from the physical, the potential psychological harm to a minor who has undergone sexual violence, if not dealt with appropriately may result in irreparable harm which is manifested in adult years.

The Sexual Offences Act 2010 is undeniably a positive step for protection of children in Guyana from this form of violence, and in time to come, with the right support systems, will have a tremendous impact. It behoves all of the relevant agencies i.e. the police, probation officers /counsellors, prosecutors, courts, citizens and victims, to fulfill their roles for there to be cohesive treatment to eradicate this scourge.
In keeping with its mandate of overseeing and monitoring of the implementation of laws and policies for protection of children, the RCC will continue to monitor developments in all spheres which expose children to sexual violence and provide appropriate intervention.  Additionally, the RCC is currently pursuing interface with relevant agencies to ensure that systems and protocols which advance the proper protection of children are adequate, disseminated and implemented.
Sexual violence should never occur and more so our children must be allowed to be free to enjoy childhood. The proper channels for reporting must be followed if justice that is desirable can be achieved.  Concomitantly, counselling and support for the child must be available even if in the end the option is exercised that criminal action or other punishment would not be pursued. Parents, relatives, neighbours, citizens, teachers have an obligation to be on the alert for instances where a child’s safety may be compromised and he or she may be exposed to sexual violence. Children must also be counselled on what is appropriate interaction and what is not.
The RCC salutes all those who are already doing their part in the protection of children from sexual and other violence. Let us all do our part to remove this scourge.