Oman with Unicef unveils national Child Protection Guide
Muscat – The Ministry of Social Development (MoSD), in collaboration with the United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) office in Oman, launched the Child Protection Guide on Monday as part of its efforts to strengthen unified national mechanisms for child protection across the sultanate.
The launch event, held under the patronage of H E Dr Laila bint Ahmed al Najar, Minister of Social Development, was attended by representatives from government bodies, civil society organisations and international partners.
Designed as a practical reference in line with the best international practices, the guide targets frontline workers such as social specialists, educators and healthcare providers. It aims to unify terminology, streamline referral procedures, and enhance coordination among stakeholders to ensure a swift and effective response to child protection cases. Maani bint Abdullah al Busaidi
Speaking at the event, Maani bint Abdullah al Busaidi, Director General of Family Development at the ministry, described the guide as a key milestone in integrating national child protection efforts.
'It empowers professionals to respond more effectively to cases of abuse, neglect and exploitation and supports the implementation of the national child protection framework in alignment with Oman Vision 2040 and the Child Law,' she said.
Unicef representative to Oman, Sumaira Chowdhury, said the guide symbolises a strong partnership between Unicef and the government of Oman. 'It reflects a shared commitment to take humane and effective action to protect children from harm and build robust, integrated protection systems throughout the country,' she noted.
The guide is the result of close cooperation between the ministry and Unicef and complements existing initiatives to build the capacities of child protection workers, enhance the national case management system, and raise public awareness around children's rights.
To ensure effective implementation, the ministry, in coordination with Unicef, will roll out a series of 'training of trainers' workshops across various governorates.
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