Last week, the “Nationale Postcode Loterij (NPL)” of the Netherlands indicated that the UNICEF NL subsidy they petitioned for, was approved. UNICEF NL will work together with the Aruban and Curacaoan governments to fortify their systems for the protection of children. Especially during this time, after the enormous socioeconomic impact made the challenges of the petition even harder, the subsidy is of such great importance to these islands.
The petition concerns 2.3 million euros which will be allocated to projects already in progress in Aruba and Curacao. These projects are in collaboration with the governments of Aruba and Curacao. This will thus involve professionals from both islands, who will structurally and optimally help with the improvement of child protection on the islands. The main goal of the project is to allow children to grow in a safe environment free of violence, and one where they are given the opportunity to develop optimally and have their talents flourish.
The themes and goals of the NPL petition are based on the “Padlet-Needs Assessment”, thus, a priority for all professionals involved based on the different conversations held last year. Now, the planning of the activities for Aruba will commence for the years 2022-2024, together with the help of the professionals and according to approved guidelines set by the NPL as well as the European Commission. All of these actions will be under strict control and supervision based on concrete goals. UNICEF NL will offer technical support during the process.
The four pillars that will be focused on and given priority are:
1. Early detection / Code of protection
2. Positive upbringing
3. Juvenile participation
4. Stimulate inter-institutional collaboration for the prevention of violence against children.
This is positive news for Aruba and very soon brainstorming sessions will commence between the different professionals who will collaborate on analyzing the necessities of children in Aruba.
