Multi-stakeholder synergy needed to eradicate violence against children with Down syndrome

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister for Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi stated that synergy is required between the government, families, society, the business world, and communities to eradicate violence against children with disabilities, including children with Down syndrome.

“Our responsibility is not only to protect, but also to ensure that every child with Down syndrome lives in a safe, friendly, and accepting environment. Let us realise child protection based on the principles of non-discrimination, the best interests of the child, and respect for human dignity in accordance with the mandate of the law,” said Arifah Fauzi in a statement in Jakarta on Saturday.

She emphasised that children with Down syndrome are part of society who must be respected, protected, and given the opportunity to develop optimally.

“Children with Down syndrome are children of the nation who have equal rights to be loved, respected, protected, and given the opportunity to develop optimally. They are not objects of pity, but subjects with potential, dignity, and a future that we must safeguard together,” said Minister Arifah Fauzi.

She stated that children with Down syndrome still often face stigmatisation, discrimination, and even physical or psychological violence.

Based on data from the 2024 National Survey on Children’s and Adolescents’ Life Experiences (SNPHAR), 83.85% of children aged 13-17 with disabilities have experienced at least one type of violence in their lifetime.

The survey also shows a significant increase in violence rates over the past 12 months, from 36.10% to 64.57%.