Peaceful rally organized under the motto 'Brčko Rises for All Our Children'

(Patria) - Several dozen residents of the District gathered in Brčko today to support the rally under the motto "Brčko Rises for All Our Children".

Representative of the informal group of citizens Alisa Hodžić told reporters that we are witnessing the fact that Brčko District of BiH is facing serious challenges in the area of protecting children's rights.

- The latest case that shocked a large number of citizens has opened many questions that have not been considered for years, and has once again confronted us with the fact that Brčko District of BiH has not systematically regulated this area. It is necessary to strengthen cooperation between institutions dealing with prevention and early detection of problems, especially related to neglect and abandonment of children, and domestic violence. We point out the need for strict and constant supervision of vulnerable population groups, which can only be achieved by strengthening institutions, primarily the Department for Social Protection, which with its current capacity is unable to respond to the growing number of cases - emphasizes Hodžić.

On behalf of the group of citizens, she proposed that punitive measures for parents who neglect or exploit children should be strengthened, then a Center for Social Work should be established, thereby increasing capacities through additional funds and professional staff.

- Work on improving institutional cooperation between health, educational and social institutions, as well as the Police and Prosecutor's Office, then establish a prevention system in cooperation with schools and local communities, and open a shelter for children who are potential victims of human trafficking, victims of parental exploitation - says Hodžić.

She emphasizes that cooperation between authorities, citizens and international organizations is a key moment for achieving long-term results in this area.

The main reason for the rally is the news about the discovery of 31 children in a family house in the Brčko settlement of Ivici, including babies and children up to 12 years old. Suspicions of child trafficking are growing daily, the number of arrested persons is increasing, the investigation is expanding, and horrific details are coming to light, say the organizers of today's poorly attended peaceful gathering. This news shocked a large number of citizens and is one of the main topics in the region.