Non-discrimination and Protective Rights of Children in Ethiopia: The Case of Gerar Jarso Wereda in Oromia Region

Abstract

This study investigated the situation of children 's non~discrimination and
protective rights, the magnitude and manifestations of violations oj these
rights, the nature of the violations. lhe causes and consequences oj the
violations. and possible suggestions to reduce the intensity and diversity of
right violations in Geram Jarso Weredal
. Six. out of the 21 kebe/e/ in the
Wereda were selected using stratified sampling. Study participants were
randomly selected children and 47 seriously abused children. In addition
to these 60 parents. 21 teachers, 12 kebefe authorities, and 24 respected
elderly people in the kebeles were also interviewed. A questionnaire,
interview guides and a focus group discussion guide were used 10 collect
data. Results were analyzed using percentage, '-test, ANOVA and
qualitative methods. Results showed that children faced discriminalioll
because of their identity (family economy, religion, culture, sex and rheir
physical condition). Neglect, physical abuse, child labour. and practicing
harmful traditions were reported. Recommendations related to awareness
raising, reporting abuses, law enforcement and building capacity of child
right commitlees arefonvardetL