×

Our award-winning reporting has moved

Context provides news and analysis on three of the world’s most critical issues:

climate change, the impact of technology on society, and inclusive economies.

Egypt: schools without violence

by Terre des hommes | Terre des hommes (Tdh) - Switzerland
Monday, 11 January 2016 10:03 GMT

* Any views expressed in this article are those of the author and not of Thomson Reuters Foundation.

In 2006, the Egyptian government has established a National Plan for the Elimination of Violence against Children. However, almost ten years later, the phenomenon remains widespread. Indeed, many studies show that Egyptian children continue to face worrying violence rates in particular in environments where they are supposed to be safe: home and school. Given the persistence of the phenomenon, Terre des hommes (Tdh) has set up a new project to improve the protection of children in schools located in Asyut governorate in Upper-Egypt.

Raising awareness and training in schools

Estimates in a recent UNICEF report show that children living in rural areas are more affected by insecurity and precariousness in Egypt, favorable ground for violence. Thus, the results, published in 2015, of a study conducted by UNICEF on children abuse show that in the governorate of Asyut 67% of children surveyed have experienced physical violence in the past year and 86% of them psychological violence. This governorate registered the highest rates of violence in Egypt identified by this study.

The spaces that should be a safe haven (schools, homes) for children yet are the main places where children are victims of violence. This explains the need to raise awareness and train key stakeholders and implement protective measures in schools.

A direct consequence of socio-political instability

In recent years, Egypt has experienced waves of social and political upheaval. This instability has created more insecurity, slowed the economy and increased tensions within families already pressured. A situation that is not conducive to the protection and development of children.

Indeed, the most vulnerable families, especially in rural areas, living in precariousness, some even under the poverty threshold, are particularly subject to stress and frustration. These conditions can contribute to promoting the use of violence to discipline children. Especially that for some, it is considered as a socially acceptable way to discipline children.

Terre des hommes contributes to positive change in the daily lives of over two million children and relatives each year. Learn more about our projects in Egypt.

-->