During the recent festive season, the Panevėžys county child rights protection department reported a troubling rise in potential violations of children’s rights in the rokiškis district, with 14 incidents logged between December 24 and January 1. While most cases stemmed from non-violent issues,such as parental alcohol abuse,three children were directly affected by violence. Žaneta Ginaitė, head of the department, emphasized the critical need for responsible adult behavior during holiday gatherings, advocating for at least one sober individual to ensure children’s safety. Nationwide, 312 reports of children’s rights violations were received, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and proactive measures to protect vulnerable youth during celebrations.
Q&A with Žaneta Ginaitė on Addressing Children’s Rights Violations During the Festive Season
Editor: Žaneta, thank you for joining us today to discuss the concerning rise in potential violations of children’s rights in the Rokiškis district during the recent festive season. Can you tell us more about the statistics reported by yoru department?
Žaneta Ginaitė: Thank you for having me. The Panevėžys county child rights protection department documented 14 potential incidents of rights violations involving children in the Rokiškis district from December 24 to January 1. Most of these cases were related to non-violent issues like parental alcohol abuse. Though, alarmingly, three children were directly affected by violence, which underscores a very serious issue we are facing.
Editor: That is indeed alarming. What can you tell us about the national perspective? How do these figures fit into the broader context regarding children’s rights in Lithuania?
Žaneta Ginaitė: Nationwide,we received 312 reports of children’s rights violations during the festive period,indicating that this is not just a localized issue. The rise in reports suggests there is a pressing need for greater awareness and proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of children, especially during holiday gatherings when social activities often involve alcohol consumption.
Editor: You mentioned the importance of responsible adult behavior during these gatherings. Can you elaborate on what specific measures you advocate for to protect children’s rights?
Žaneta Ginaitė: absolutely. One crucial piece of advice is to ensure that there is at least one sober adult present during any holiday gathering involving children.This person can monitor the situation and intervene if necessary, providing a safeguard for children and helping to prevent any potential harm.Additionally, encouraging open dialogues among family members about responsible behavior and setting clear expectations can definitely help create a safer environment.
Editor: These insights are vital. What steps can communities take to better support children’s rights during festive occasions?
Žaneta Ginaitė: Communities need to come together to increase awareness about the risks that come with holiday festivities.This could include organizing public campaigns that highlight the importance of children’s safety during celebrations and offering resources for families struggling with alcohol abuse. Moreover, community events that encourage family-friendly activities can create safer environments for children.
Editor: With the reported incidents, what role do you think parents play in preventing these situations?
Žaneta Ginaitė: Parents have a crucial role in safeguarding their children’s rights. They must be mindful of how their behavior could impact their children, especially during holiday gatherings. By leading by example, parents can create a culture of obligation and care within their homes and communities, fostering a greater sense of accountability for not just themselves but others around them.
Editor: Thank you, Žaneta, for sharing these significant insights. As we look ahead, what message would you like to leave our readers regarding children’s rights and safety?
Žaneta Ginaitė: It’s important for everyone to take an active role in protecting children’s rights, especially during festive seasons. By being vigilant and proactive, we can ensure that celebrations are a joyful time for all families.I urge everyone to remain aware of their surroundings, engage in conversations about responsible behavior, and, most importantly, ensure that children feel safe and valued during these times. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in safeguarding our youth.
This Q&A highlights the critical need for awareness and proactive measures to address violations of children’s rights during celebrations, reflecting the urgent dialog necessary for community and parental engagement.