Jakarta, Indonesia – In response to the growing need for robust child protection in the context of counter-terrorism, UNODC partnered with Indonesia's National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) to host a pivotal Training of Trainers (ToT) event, from 6 to 9 August 2024, in Jakarta. This initiative brought together law enforcement professionals from across the nation, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to safeguard children's rights and well-being in challenging circumstances.
Safety and Support
The event served as a hub of knowledge and collaboration, bringing together law enforcement officials from across Indonesia. These participants, armed with international law guidance, the latest insights, and evidence-based best practices, left the training ready to become trainers themselves. Their commitment ensures that this crucial learning will be disseminated across the country, helping to protect every child who comes into contact with the law. Two follow-up training courses are planned to ensure the sustainability of this programme.
Knowledge, Skills, and Sustainability
The ToT event was designed to achieve several critical objectives:
Enhancing Knowledge and Skills: Through interactive sessions, participants gained a deep understanding of the legal, psychological, and social aspects of handling cases involving children in the context of counter-terrorism. UNODC experts shared best practices to ensure the safety and well-being of these vulnerable individuals.
Building Capacity for Sustainability: A key goal of the program was to empower participants to become future trainers. By providing comprehensive training materials and methodologies, the event ensured that the knowledge gained would be multiplied and sustained over time.
Fostering Multisectoral Collaboration and Coordination: The event underscored the importance of inter-sectoral coordination in promoting a protective environment for children. By encouraging collaboration among various sectors, the training aimed to create a more cohesive and effective approach to child protection in Indonesia.
Voices of Commitment
Participants and organizers alike expressed their unwavering commitment to protecting children in the context of counter-terrorism. Irjen Pol. Ibnu Suhaendra of BNPT emphasized the collective responsibility, stating, "We cannot allow the fear of terrorism to immobilize us. We must use it as an opportunity to understand more about our society, to uncover the root causes of this phenomenon, and to respond united."
This initiative builds upon a longstanding collaboration between the Government of Indonesia and UNODC, which has led to the "Bali Call for Action," a political declaration endorsing the UNODC Roadmap on the treatment of children associated with terrorist and violent extremist groups. It also builds on the successful implementation of the STRIVE Juvenile project, which made significant progress in preventing and responding to violence against children by terrorist groups. Additionally, the recent endorsement of a resolution on the treatment of these children by the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ) further solidifies this commitment.
UNODC and BNPT have pledged ongoing support to ensure the continued success of this initiative. Together, they are dedicated to building a safer, more supportive environment for children, ensuring that their rights and well-being are protected.
"It is our responsibility to ensure that any process involving children associated with terrorist groups is fully respectful of their rights," said Erik Van der Veen, UNODC Head of Office, Liaison to ASEAN and Programme Office in Indonesia. "By doing so, we not only uphold the rule of law but also build a safer and more resilient society for future generations."
For further information please contact:
Mersiha Causevic Podzic
Communications Officer
mersiha.causevicpodzic[at]un.org
