BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Despite strict laws against sexual abuse, Solomon Islands continues to record alarmingly high cases of this, according to Dr. Koen Sevenants, a consultant for UNICEF’s Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) for Children and Families.

Speaking at an advanced training on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) for Children and Families for provincial mental health Coordinators in Honiara this week, Dr. Sevenants said awareness among children is crucial in reducing abuse.

The five days training, started on Monday 22 and concludes on Friday 26 this week and is being held at the ANZ UN Joint Presence office conference room in Honiara at Ranadi.

“We do have a functioning police force and parents who love their children. So how is abuse still possible? The answer lies in awareness. Children must know what sexual abuse is,” Dr Sevenants said.

He highlighted that most perpetrators are not strangers but people trusted by the family including relatives, teachers, or respected community members.

He said that children between the ages of 5 and 11 often fail to recognise abuse until later in adolescence.

To address this, Dr. Sevenants urges parents and educators to teach children about “good touch” and “bad touch” and to empower them to report inappropriate behavior.

“Even the most respected or decent-looking individuals can be perpetrators. There are no exceptions,” he warned.

He said that perpetrators can come from any background rich or poor, religious leaders, professionals, or even parents.

“Children need to be aware of what is acceptable and what is not. That knowledge is key to prevention,” he said.

He urges families to take responsibility in guiding children towards healthier understandings of sexuality.

“Families must talk openly about respectful relationships, love, and intimacy,” he said.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]