According to statistics, the number of children falling from high rise buildings in on the increase.
Latest incident involves a five-year old Syrian boy in Ras Al Khaimah who fell from the second-floor of a building in the Nakheel area this week. The boy fractured his leg, hands and jaw but survived.
In connection, a new law aimed at prosecuting parents who neglect their children has rolled out in the UAE.
Informally referred to as Wadeema’s Law, in memory of an eight-year-old Emirati girl tortured to death by her father, it took effect on June 15.
For the first time, anyone in contact with a child – from parents and teachers to doctors and nurses – can be held accountable for causing harm, and is legally obliged to report cases of suspected abuse.
In Dubai, two child protection centres have been set up to help young people up to the age of 18. “Our child protection specialists will be available on call any time,” said Khaled Al Kamda, director general of the Community Development Authority.
“If a child’s life is in danger then we intervene immediately. The centre has the authority to go, take out the child and remove them to safety.”
In Abu Dhabi, social workers will be available for the first time at a new child affairs prosecution service to assist and investigate cases related to young people.
Nationwide, cases can be reported on the 116111 hotline, with a guarantee of anonymity and confidentiality.
Teachers from nursery to senior level will be trained in their responsibilities, what to look for, and how to report cases of abuse.
Anyone who breaks the law faces a fine of up to Dh50,000, and up to 10 years in prison for physical/sexual abuse or criminal negligence of children.
Authorities have urged all schools to appoint a counsellor or psychologist, and hospitals should devise their own reporting structure.
