Stand up for children: Support Child Protection Week 2025

The Citizen

03-06-2025

Child Protection Week is an annual campaign in South Africa aimed at raising awareness about the rights of children and the importance of protecting them from abuse, neglect, violence, and exploitation.
It is a time to promote collective responsibility for the safety and well-being of every child.
In 2025, Child Protection Week will be observed from May 29 to June 5. While the week helps focus national attention, child protection must be a daily commitment.
Children face risks throughout the year, and safeguarding their rights requires ongoing vigilance, education, and action from individuals, families, communities, and institutions.
Ongoing efforts are essential to break cycles of abuse and create a safer, more supportive society for future generations.
Here is how you can get it:
Know the law and your duty
South Africa's Constitution and the Children's Act (Act No. 38 of 2005) place a legal and moral obligation on every adult to protect children. Understanding Article 28 of the Constitution, which guarantees every child the right to protection from maltreatment, neglect, abuse or degradation, is the first step towards meaningful action.
Be the eyes and ears
If you witness or suspect abuse, don't stay silent. Reporting abuse can save lives. Know the signs of physical, emotional and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. Children may not always speak out, but their behaviour often does.
Empower children with knowledge
Teach children about their rights in age-appropriate ways. Equip them with the tools to speak up and seek help if they feel unsafe at home, at school, or online. Trusted adults, teachers and caregivers must create safe spaces for these conversations.
Support child-focused organisations
Donate, volunteer, or partner with NGOs and community organisations working in child protection. Their work is vital and often under-resourced. Use your skills, time or platforms to make a difference.
Keep an eye on digital dangers
Online grooming, bullying, and exploitation are increasing threats. Monitor children's online activities, activate parental controls, and have open conversations about internet safety.
Make child safety everyone's business
Encourage schools, religious institutions, sports clubs, and community groups to observe Child Protection Week. Hosting workshops, poster drives, or awareness talks can amplify the message that every child matters.
Break the silence on abuse
Stigma and silence perpetuate abuse. Survivors and allies must be supported to speak out. Share real stories (with consent) during Child Protection Week to shine a light on both the pain and the hope of recovery.
Challenge harmful norms
Cultural practices or social beliefs should never justify child abuse. Take a stand against harmful traditions, bullying, and gender-based violence in all its forms.
Lead by example
Children watch what we do more than what we say. Show respect, kindness and non-violence in your own actions, whether as a parent, neighbour or community leader.
Save these vital numbers:
Keep these helplines easily accessible and share them in your networks:
• Department of Social Development (24/7 GBV Command Centre): 0800 428 428 (Toll-free)
• Dial *120*7867# (free from any mobile phone) to request a call-back
• Childline South Africa: 116
• Child Welfare South Africa: 0861 4 CHILD (24453) / 011 452-4110
• Email: [e-mail]
This year's theme echoes a vital truth: 'It's in our hands to stop the cycle'. Let's build a society where children are protected, nurtured, and given the chance to thrive, not just during Child Protection Week, but every day.
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