Convention on the Rights of the Child

Through the Press, we have been campaigning in favour of children's rights for the past five years. But it seems that the government has no intention of abiding by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which Malta ratified in November 1990.

If some of the convention's articles were to become law in Malta, we would not witness the kind of tragedy which took the life of Jeanette Mifsud on New Year's Eve. Children would not be seen roaming the streets, consuming alcohol while the police look on, unable to stop them.

Our children who are under 18 have a right to their childhood. They can only enjoy their childhood when there is a safe and healthy environment. This is not the case in Malta. Although the government forks out millions of liri in social services and education, children's rights are not given their due consideration.

And this is because some important laws, like the Children Act, are still on the shelf.

Besides alcohol abuse and smoking, there is the other problem of children spending their leisure time in places meant for adults. This must be addressed not only through legislation but also through proper sex education as is the practice in most European countries.

How can parents stop their children from drinking alcohol when it is legal to do so? How can we parents stop children from going out with adults, when they are not made aware of the dangers of sexual abuse?

There are many other issues which need to be addressed so the enforcement of these laws are imperative. We have the interests of the child at heart.