Chile: Media attention for children's rights

Chile is considered a prime example of an economically successful nation. It ranks 41st on the UN Human Development Index, a better position than any other Latin American country. Nevertheless, Chile faces significant social and human rights challenges. RAICES is a small Chilean organization that has been fighting against the sexual exploitation of children and adolescents since 1991. Its focus is on eliminating commercial sexual exploitation, prostitution and pornography, sex tourism, and child trafficking. 

To place the rights of children and young people on the national agenda and to urge the government to strengthen child protection, RAICES is organizing a major media campaign to raise public awareness. The organization is working closely with 50 journalists and 150 journalism students, training them on the topic of children's rights. In addition, 400 active children and young people are being involved in the program. The journalists are tasked with criticizing the inadequate child rights legislation in Chile, while the students are honing their skills using the "Foco Social" (Social Focus) online platform organized by RAICES. This platform monitors the child rights situation in Chile and provides an information pool for international media. The goal is to foster the understanding, not only among the public but also among members of the Chilean parliament, that a reform of child protection laws is essential.

The idea that every child has a right to education, physical integrity, and a clean environment has not yet sunk in for all Chileans. RAICES has already achieved a great deal in raising awareness of children's needs and rights. But there is still a long way to go between the current situation and the proper implementation of children's rights in Chile.

Your support for strong children!