Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua – The Ciudad Juárez Security and Justice Roundtable has raised an alarm following an analysis of crime indicators for March, which revealed that 70% of sexual violence reports in the city involve children and adolescents as victims. This statistic underscores the severity of a problem that exposes a profound child protection crisis in the region.
Deep-seated Structural Problem
According to Ángela Sánchez, coordinator of Ficosec, Ciudad Juárez is grappling with a deep-seated structural problem concerning crimes against the integrity of minors. In light of this, both authorities and civil society representatives have called for immediate implementation of operational changes and specialized infrastructure. The goal is to ensure adequate care and prevent the re-victimization of the youngest victims.
Key Proposals for Action
Among the primary proposals is the creation of a dedicated unit within the Specialized Prosecutor’s Office for Women (FEM), exclusively focused on attending to minors. Currently, this unit shares space with departments investigating femicides, which has been deemed an unsuitable environment for traumatized children and adolescents. The initiative envisions an independent space with separate access points and personnel highly trained in child care.
Furthermore, the Security Roundtable emphasized the need to strengthen protection mechanisms in daycare centers and nurseries. This would involve an integrated model with strict protocols for the prevention, detection, and handling of potential abuse cases. The aim is to create safer environments for both children and their caregivers.
Call for Immediate and Coordinated Action
Authorities and organizations unanimously agreed that the gravity of these figures demands immediate and coordinated action. This includes effective prosecution of crimes alongside the establishment of dignified, humane, and specialized infrastructure, all focused on curbing the increase of these offenses in the Juarense community.
Source: https://canal44.com/alarma-en-ciudad-juarez-menores-concentran-el-70-de-vio-lencia-sexu-al/
