NCJ Number
218239
Date Published
2007
Length
35 pages
Annotation
Under the Council of Europe, this paper presents seven good and strong reasons for building a Europe for children through the prevention of violence against children, along with initiatives addressing each reason under the Building a Europe For and With Children.
Abstract
Reason 1, children are not mini-human beings with mini-human rights--a 3-year Council of Europe program seeks to ensure respect for children’s rights. Reason 2, children are vulnerable and need more protection--the Council of Europe aims to eradicate all forms of violence against children. Reason 3, no violence against children is justifiable—a campaign to eradicate all forms of violence against children is recommended under “building a Europe for and with children.” Reason 4, all violence against children can be prevented--the development of a program to help countries set-up strategies for the prevention of violence against children is recommended. Reason 5, protecting children calls for a strategic approach--States will be assisted in consolidating or developing national strategies for the protection of children’s rights. Reason 6, children’s rights concern all--every sector of society will be mobilized to make them aware of their specific responsibilities and strengthen their capacity to prevent violence and protect children. Reason 7, children’s rights make Europe grow--international cooperation combines important tools such as standard setting, monitoring, policy development, technical assistance and awareness-raising and puts them to the service of children’s rights. The Council of Europe works in partnership with other important players to ensure appropriate follow-up to the recommendations of the United Nations on Violence Against Children. The Council of Europe can effectively address the issue of children’s rights. It can combine highly effective tools and easily mobilize four main actors: governments, parliaments, local authorities, and NGOs. Examples of ongoing activities at the Council of Europe are presented, such as standard setting, monitoring, policy development, and outreach.