The Importance of Sex Education in Preventing Child Abuse
In a recent House human rights committee meeting, Volt MP Alexandra Attalides highlighted the crucial role of sex education in safeguarding children against child abuse. Attalides referenced research dating back to 1976, underscoring the longstanding recognition of the need for early sex education in Cyprus schools. She emphasized that European studies corroborate the protective impact of sex education against potential abusers.
With over 400 complaints of child sexual abuse reported annually to the Children’s House, Attalides raised concerns that the actual number of victims could exceed 1,000 children each year in Cyprus, considering that many cases go unreported. Despite the clear need for such education, she criticized the near five-decade delay in its implementation, attributing it to misinformation and societal fearmongering.
The cabinet’s approval of sex education in public schools came only last year, a move that Education Minister Athena Michaelidou stands behind. Michaelidou expressed satisfaction with the current state of sex education, noting an increase in abuse reports as a sign of progress. She shared a personal account of a child who reported abuse while in kindergarten, illustrating the importance of these programs in empowering children to speak out.
Michaelidou firmly stated that all children would participate in sex education classes, countering some parents’ wishes for exclusion. The objective is clear: to protect children from sexual abuse, encourage open communication, and ensure their sexual health and safety.
Other MPs at the meeting expressed their contentment with the government’s approach to sex education. Committee chairwoman and Akel MP Irene Charalambidou condemned the spread of disinformation on the subject. Disy MP Fotini Tsiridou and Rita Superman, along with Diko MP Christos Senekis and Green MP Charalambos Theopemptou, also voiced their approval of the steps being taken.
The consensus among MPs suggests a positive trajectory for sex education in Cyprus, with hopes that it will significantly contribute to the prevention of child sexual abuse and support the wellbeing of children across the nation.
