PHNOM PENH: A senior United Nations children's fund (Unicef) official on Friday (Dec 8) called for increased efforts to end violence against children in Cambodia, as 66 per cent of children in the kingdom have experienced violent discipline.
Unicef Regional Director for East Asia and the Pacific Debora Comini (pic) made the appeal at the conclusion of her three-day visit to the country, where she met with ministry officials and development partners to advocate for enhanced efforts to stop violence against children in all settings and end unnecessary family separation.
Comini said a survey showed that 66 per cent of children aged 1-14 years have experienced violent discipline at home, and 27 per cent of caregivers believe that physical punishment is needed to raise or educate a child properly.
To prevent violence against children and promote positive discipline, Unicef Cambodia supports a programme implemented in pagodas and led by the Ministry of Cult and Religion, Comini said.
She added the programme focuses on strengthening the knowledge and skills of Buddhist monks to transform attitudes, beliefs and behaviours of families regarding violence and create safer spaces in schools, homes and communities for children to grow and develop. - Xinhua
