SELAK: INTENSIFY FIGHT AGAINST PEDOPHILIA, LIMIT ACCESS TO SOCIAL MEDIA FOR CHILDREN

BANJA LUKA, DECEMBER 21 /SRNA/ – The fight against pedophilia, sexual abuse, and exploitation of children must be intensified in Republika Srpska, Minister of Justice Goran Selak emphasized.

Selak told SRNA that such cases are increasingly shocking the public and that Srpska must be a place where children grow up safely, which is why access to social networks should be limited for minors, while the victims should be given special attention and support. “Children, the victims of abuse, unfortunately, due to fear, shame, or threats by the perpetrator, rarely speak openly about their suffering and what is happening to them,” Selak added. He noted that the problem is more serious the younger the victim is, because a sexual offense can leave permanent consequences, especially in terms of fear of people and normal communication. “Criminal offenses of sexual exploitation and abuse of a child are among the most serious, deeply affecting the most vulnerable members of society, especially when the consequences for the victim are taken into account, both physical and psychological, as well as social,” Selak stated. He stressed that criminal legislation is an important tool in dealing with sexual offenders, but that it should be borne in mind that the criminal law response model is primarily reactive rather than preventive, as its provisions are activated only after a criminal offense has been committed and can provide only partial satisfaction to the victim and society in general. “With the aim of protecting the safety of children from sexual abuse, exploitation, and mistreatment, as a society we must continuously work on prevention, education, and strengthening institutions that fight this type of criminal offense,” Selak emphasized. Selak says it is very important to ensure that children who have experienced abuse receive all the necessary support so they can overcome trauma and build a healthy and safe future. “Only through joint efforts can we act preventively and reduce the risk of further abuse, thus creating a safer environment for our children,” Selak concluded.