In line with the initiatives to protect and promote the rights of children and families, child protection officers (CPOs) must also be well-resourced.
CPO in Bougainville, Desmond Ponpon, applauded welfare offers and CPOs during the launch of the report on child protection systems in PNG, who have laboured tirelessly in trying to assist children and families.
Ponpon said they’ve faced many challenges while doing their job.
He said they’ve been threatened, intimidated and harassed simply because they have spoken up against abuses inflicted upon defenseless, innocent children and women.
“Men and women who unwaveringly do welfare and child protection work have been for so long overseen and almost neglected with no resources, funding and security.
“Therefore we must be protected in order to do our job well and effectively.”
He added that the courts, health, police and other service providers must take heed of their roles in this framework so that all essential service providers complement each other.
Ponpon said: “We have created a system that calls for a collaborative approach, therefore it certainly requires us all to do our part where ever possible to progress the advancement of PNG children.”