Can new initiative put an end to abuse at Egyptian orphanages?
Amid mounting concerns over abuse and mistreatment, the Egyptian Social Solidarity Ministry has recently launched an initiative to end the violations committed at orphanages and other child care centers throughout the country.
CAIRO — Egyptian Minister of Social Solidarity Ghada Wali is promising to reform her country’s orphanages, which have long been denounced for their miserable conditions and children’s allegations of abuse.
On Dec. 23, many children at an orphanage in the Alexandria governorate reported food deprivation, torture and other violence, saying they had been tied up and beaten by the facility’s director.
Five days later, Wali announced an initiative to form rapid-rescue teams to deal with children’s complaints at orphanages and improve the service provided there.
At a press conference, Wali admitted the existence of major violations at orphanages, as well as the need for clear standards that guarantee good treatment for children.
