The Children’s sector is concerned with the rights and definition of a child.
Poverty
The global recession has affected all nations and in particular, the developing countries that require much assistance. Especially children are threatened by this poverty which is linked to several negative phenomena such as child labour, early marriages, prostitution, and child trafficking.
Inadequate Education System
Vulnerable children continue to be denied their right to education through an inadequate allocation of resources in the education sector. Access to schools is indeed a condition for the empowerment of children – but if this is denied, then these children will be vulnerable to various forms of abuse.
HIV and AIDS
The HIV and AIDS pandemic has resulted in the loss of parents, guardians, and breadwinners for many children. This has brought to light another concern of inheritance rights which have often been violated and unreported due to ignorance and lack of knowledge. Also, children are vulnerable to discrimination when both infected or affected by the virus, thus hurting their well-being in general.
Technology
As much as technology has enhanced exposure and national development, it also entails a risk for the well-being of children: With smartphones and internet access all over the place, children can access pornographic material prematurely resulting in sexual experimentation. This has resulted at times in teenage pregnancy due to premature sexual activity or cases of sexual abuse amongst children themselves.
Traditional, Cultural, and Religious Practices
Despite the overall modernisation of the Zimbabwean society, traditional cultural and religious practices especially in some rural areas are still affecting the well-being of children: Those falling prey to impositions made by their elders such as child marriages. Some communities also tend to violate or deny children rights like the right to health care or the right to education particularly for girls.
The Breakdown of Societal Safety Nets and Values
Gone are the days when it was taken for granted that an orphan would be cared for by the extended family. Even when parents are alive but separated, children are being abandoned. Child-headed households are mushrooming throughout communities showing that neglect has become a result of the breakdown of societal safety nets and values. Further outgrowths of these “broken homes” are domestic violence, different forms of child abuse, and what is also termed the “step-parent syndrome”
Conclusion
Henceforth the need for intense advocacy has become pivotal in protecting children. There is a need to expose and enlighten people vigilantly on the issues around children. Interventions are pivotal in saving the life and well-being of a child out there in desperate need to preserve the future of tomorrow.
