Cape Verde & Portugal Partner to Protect Children’s Rights
The National Commission for Human Rights and Citizenship (CNDHC) of Cape Verde and Portugal’s Child Support Institute (IAC) have formalized a new partnership aimed at bolstering the protection of children’s rights across both nations.
A Framework for Collaboration
Announced on Tuesday during a virtual signing ceremony, the protocol establishes a comprehensive framework for cooperation. The agreement includes joint initiatives for public education, technical support, and specialized training programs. Furthermore, the two organizations will collaborate on funding applications and international program submissions to secure resources for youth advocacy.
United by Tragedy
The urgency of the partnership was highlighted by CNDHC President Eurídice Mascarenhas, who referenced the devastating road accident on Fogo Island earlier this month. The disaster, which claimed the lives of 25 children and young people, sent shockwaves through the archipelago and underscored the critical need for robust safety and protection networks.
“The tragedy demonstrated the vital importance of joining efforts in the protection of children’s rights,” Mascarenhas stated during the teleconference.
Sharing Expertise and Experience
Manuel Ataíde Coutinho, President of the IAC, echoed these sentiments, noting that the partnership creates a vital bridge for sharing institutional knowledge. “This allows for the merging of efforts and experiences,” Coutinho said. “We can learn from each other and find ways to better respond to the challenges we face.”
The CNDHC, established in 2004, operates with a wide-reaching network that includes focal points in all 22 municipalities of Cape Verde. These representatives serve as essential intermediaries between the national commission and local communities.
The Portuguese counterpart, the IAC, was founded in 1983. It boasts a multidisciplinary team of doctors, magistrates, teachers, psychologists, and social workers. The institute is known for its dual approach, managing large-scale national projects alongside grassroots actions throughout Portugal.
By aligning their resources, the CNDHC and IAC aim to create a more resilient support system for vulnerable youth, ensuring that the lessons learned from past tragedies lead to meaningful systemic change.
Image: Pexels – Antonius Ferret
