LEBANON – The Ministry of Social Affairs and UNICEF organized a graduation ceremony in Beirut, marking World Social Work Day, for 100 trained workers in child protection and gender-based violence.
According to a statement, the event represents the culmination of a national effort to strengthen case management services for children who have survived sexual violence across different regions of Lebanon.
In response to the growing number of reported child sexual abuse cases, UNICEF partnered with the Ministry of Social Affairs, along with the Child Protection and Gender-Based Violence working groups. With funding from the Government of the Netherlands, they adapted the global “Caring for Child Survivors (CCS)” approach to fit Lebanon’s national legal framework.
The program was aligned with Law 422, mandatory reporting mechanisms, and approved national procedures, ensuring a coordinated and legally compliant response.
On this occasion, Minister of Social Affairs Haneen El Sayed said her presence was not merely participation in a graduation ceremony, but a celebration of a profound humanitarian commitment.
She noted that the graduates chose to become the first line of defense for children who have endured one of the most difficult experiences a child can face.
She emphasized that child survivors of sexual violence need more than services.
They require sensitivity, a deep understanding of trauma, and genuine care. They need professionals who listen without judgment, believe them, and protect them.
She stressed that sexual violence against children is a crime committed not only against the child, but against society as a whole. Its effects may last for many years if there is no proper professional intervention based on confidentiality, respect for the child, and the principle of the child’s best interest at every step.
The Minister reaffirmed that the Ministry of Social Affairs remains committed to developing staff capacities, strengthening protection mechanisms, and working in full coordination with the judiciary, security agencies, and the health sector to ensure child-friendly justice and effective, sustainable protection.
She highlighted Law 422 as a key national reference for the protection of children at risk.
Addressing the graduates, she said: “Your role is not just a job, but a mission. You are the first to receive a child’s pain. You are the ones who help rebuild trust, step by step. Every sound professional intervention you make may change a child’s entire life.”
She urged them to maintain high standards, clear ethics, and strict confidentiality, and to always remember that the child comes before any file or procedure.
She concluded by saying that investing in their capacity is an investment in a safer and more just future. Every child protected today means a stronger society tomorrow.
She affirmed, will continue to stand by them in support of every effort that preserves the dignity of Lebanon’s children.
