Child sexual abuse : the civil aspect

Abstract

The sexual abuse of children has been discovered and rediscovered throughout history. Indeed, child sexual abuse is one of the darkest revelations of modern life. In the past, these incidents were taboo. Even though. sexual abuse is greatly misunderstood, yet still, it leaves behind a trauma of long-term consequences, both for the child and the family as a whole, especially if the perpetrator is one of the child's parents. Thus, in order to recognize the reality of sexual abuse and to address the trauma experienced, it is important to adhere to a broader definition of sexual abuse. Since children of all ages and from all walks of life are sexually abused, they, being the most vulnerable members of society, have the right to be physically and emotionally protected at all costs. To achieve such protection, homogeneous laws are deemed necessary. In order to have adequate laws, it is necessary that awareness, understanding, support and care be granted to all concerned during such delicate situations. Therefore, early identification and effective intervention is required. This would help to lessen all the harm suffered and promotes a recovery to a healthier life. Consequently, it is the family together with the State who must make sure that children are safe and that their needs are met. Countries, such as the Middle East, the Far East, Africa and Malta lack located epidemiological studies in this regard. However, Malta, being a party to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, has already made a step forward in enhancing to eradicate child sexual abuse altogether. Although we have sporadic general laws granting child protection, we still lack a Children's Act. However, notwithstanding this, awareness has increased and other entities such as the Maltese Ecclesiastical Province has recently published a policy specifically dealing with child sexual abuse, thus illustrating the structures and procedures that are taken up in such cases. Yet, however, a lot of work still needs to be done.