From the beginning, SOS Children’s Villages has been committed to the well-being and safety of children. As an international NGO we are active in many different cultural settings, in many different circumstances. However, the central aim remains the same: We want each child to grow with love, respect and security.
We stand against the sexual, physical and psychological abuse of children regardless of culture; it is simply not part of the SOS Children's Village movement and people around the world must look to make sure that no child is harmed! (Helmut Kutin, President of SOS-Kinderdorf International)
SOS Children’s Villages expresses a clear statement of zero tolerance: child abuse is never acceptable, never justifiable! In accordance with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, we work for and with children who run the risk of losing parental care or who have already lost it. Since the aspect of safety plays a central role in each child’s development we commit to making sure that abuse becomes impossible to occur within our programme.
For us, prevention is the key. In our continuous efforts to identify underlying causes of child abuse and maltreatment, we keep strengthening our child protection culture on all levels.
Our Child Protection Policy gives a clear framework for taking action to protect children from any harm, abuse and neglect. This policy was developed together with many different stakeholders from all continents and many countries, including children and young people.
Child and youth participation is essential. We give children and young people a voice and appreciate their active contribution to the fulfilment of their own rights. They have also contributed to the text of the song “Here I Am” by defining what “child safety” means for them. They sing this song from their perspective.
“Let’s live in peace and dignity (…) Warmth, shelter, love, and care, no one should have to despair.” The attitudes and values of each of us count: Child safety is everybody’s business!
Music & Lyrics: Frank Posch
Copyright 2008 SELAMUSIC Frank Posch, AUME