UNICEF says thank you New Zealand

MEDIA RELEASE:

UNICEF says thank you New Zealand and cautiously celebrates signs of hope.

Last week UNICEF released the INNOCENTI report-card that scored New Zealand low in how well it cares for its children. The advocacy manager of UNICEF New Zealand responds to public and political reaction to the report.

"This is one of those times that New Zealand is a place to be proud of. "
Said, David Kenkel UNICEF Advocacy Manager.

He went on to add:

"The first stage of fixing things is facing up to what's wrong and over the last week there's been a great deal of thoughtful public, politician and media reflection on the bad news this report contains.

There is no question that we have a long way to go, however, the public and political response to the release of this report has been courageous in confronting unpalatable truths. It would have been easy to deny this report, or play - shift the blame games. Its early days; but so far there appears to be a willingness across communities and political groups to shoulder responsibility and re-think some of the taken for granted ways we've all approached raising and caring for our children."

Mr Kenkel also urged the New Zealand community to repeal section 59 of the crimes act, which allows a defence in law for using physical force, such as hitting, to discipline children.

"This is something we need to be brave enough to change. Talking about wanting to end child abuse while at the same time sanctioning hitting children is a double standard that the INNOCENTI report shows us we can no longer afford. We need to do the right thing and repeal this outdated law. Tell your MP"

ENDS

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