The Korean government is taking measures to create a system that can spot children in danger before they suffer any harm. The current system is reactive instead of proactive, as authorities take action only after child abuse is reported. (Image : Pixabay)
SEOUL, March 30 (Korea Bizwire) – The Korean government is taking measures to create a system that can spot children in danger before they suffer any harm. The current system is reactive instead of proactive, as authorities take action only after child abuse is reported.
According to new measures decided on by the government, a manual outlining the steps required to identify children suffering from abuse will be issued. Different instructions will be provided to spot abused children of different ages.
Using big data related to students and children, the government also plans to create a system that supports children’s happiness.
More education on the matter will be provided to parents and children to prevent child abuse cases. Content will be added to the regular school curriculum from elementary to high school, and in liberal arts curricula in college. The education will be provided to parents when they visit schools, local government offices and hospitals tending to their children.
To parents of ‘weaker families’ or those who are at a higher risk of abusing their children, an in depth education program will be provided. For instance, the parents of a family created through a second marriage will be provided with an annual course on their children’s growth and what they go through at the ‘Healthy Family Support Center’. Families consisting of children and their grandparents will be provided with services to prevent communication gaps.
Parents who already have a record of abusing their children will be required to take courses to help them recover their family functions, and will be continuously monitored.
Children will be educated at kindergarten, preschool and elementary, middle and high schools so that they can be aware of when they are being abused.
Laws are expected to be updated so that it will be obligatory for cases of child abuse to be reported to the police once spotted. In addition, when a child abuse case occurs, police and officials from child protection organizations will isolate the child from their parents, and help them recover.
Various campaigns and events will also take place to spread awareness about child abuse.
By M.H.Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
