Leda Koursoumba, Commissioner for Children’s Rights

1. Managing change of mentality in society and in institutions regarding reporting and successfully prosecuting child sexual abuse cases Leda Koursoumba, Commissioner for Children’s Rights

2. A cry of despair… You were not there to protect me as a child, and I’ll live with that damage for the rest of my life. But I vow, as a young person in this society, to put an end to this violence for the next generation. You can stand with me, or you can turn your back. Maya: youth leader, survivor and street-involved youth (V.O.I.C.E)

3. A global pact on Children`s Rights The Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) By ratifying the CRC (and its Protocols), states signify their consent to be held accountable before the international community for guaranteeing the rights of the child

4. CYPRUS By ratifying the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) (and its Protocols), Cyprus signified its consent to be held accountable before the international community for guaranteeing the rights of the child, including the right to protection from all forms of sexual exploitation. By appointing a Commissioner for Children`s Rights, Cyprus emphasized its commitment to take action towards the successful implementation of the CRC.

5. Child Sexual Abuse Change of mentality in society and in Institutions: • Children`s views • Monitoring Role

6. Children’s Perspective Children regardless their age, • Lack basic knowledge which would allow them to identify a behavior of sexual abuse especially within romantic relationships; • Do not know how to protect themselves • Do not have any opportunities to discuss the issue of sexual abuse neither in school nor within their families so as to gain a better understanding; • Do not receive adequate sexual education in schools .

7. Change of mentality Positive effort: • Health promotion part of the curriculum in schools

8. Change of mentality In Institutions: Implement in practice the right of the child to participate in all matters that concern him/her

9. Change of mentality Challenges: • Parents: work needs to be done with parents so as to be empowered enough to be able to talk to their children effectively and appropriately on issues of sexual violence as well as the meaning of consent for sexual acts within a relationship.

10. Change of mentality in the Institutions involved in reporting and prosecuting child sexual abuse Under one roof -Towards the best interest of the child in cases of child sexual abuse

11. Change of mentality: The best interest of the child is given priority With the overt aim of preventing repetitive interviews, a child friendly setting, must be created – an environment designed to make the child feel secure and comfortable. The aim will also be to facilitate coordination of the different agencies in society in dealing with child sexual abuse cases. Under one roof

12. Change of mentality: Trained professionals with expertise Children is a special group therefore needs professionals who are trained accordingly. Children victims of abuse require professionals who are trained and experienced

13. Thanks for you attention