ARC condemns in the strongest terms the recent case of rape of a 2-year old. ARC remains deeply concerned about the systematic flaws in the child protection system in the country, and that cases of child abuse continue to be neglected and overlooked due to the deficiencies in law enforcement, judicial and social sectors tasked with the promotion and protection of the rights of the child in the Maldives.
Rape, sexual abuse and exploitation of children are extremely serious crimes in the Maldives and special provisions have also been enacted to ensure protection of children. ARC calls upon authorities to ensure proper inquiries, investigations, and ensure protection and justice for the child, as well as to enforce these laws and special provisions, consistent with the national laws and Maldives’ commitments under various human rights instruments.
Society as a whole has an obligation to protect children from neglect, abuse and exploitation, and ARC urges members of the public to report such cases, or any suspicious activity, to 1412 or 3000600.
ARC reiterates its commitment to continue its efforts to work with all relevant actors with a view to safeguard the rights of all Maldivian children.