Ombudsman: ‘the risks of child poverty, abuse and neglect have increased during the coronavirus pandemic’

In her public statement, Georgian Public Defender Nino Lomjaria writes that the risks of child poverty, abuse and neglect have increased during the coronavirus pandemic, and that access to education for some children is a problematic issue due to the lack of access to the internet and computer in the regions and highland villages of Georgia.

The coronavirus pandemic has worsened the lives of underaged children with disabilities and those who live in poverty or in the streets. They should be provided with effective support by the state in accordance with their needs and risks”, Lomjaria noted.

Lomjaria said the Ministries of Education and Health should ensure that children are constantly provided with information in a clear and visible manner, which should include important recommendations and measures in the fight against the virus.

In her statement, Lomjaria also notes that children living in the regions and highland villages should have access to the internet and a computer during the pandemic, as schools have switched to remote classes.

At the same time, it is very important for every citizen to understand the dangers and the risks that minors face. Their safety and health largely depends on the civic self-awareness of parents and caregivers during the pandemic”, reads the statement.

As the risks of domestic violence have increased during the coronavirus pandemic, Lomjaria urged social agencies to strengthen preventive measures and ensure timely and effective coordination in order to eliminate the problem.