METHODOLOGY
Abstract
The goal of CRC Article 19 (24/25/39): Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting to Support Implementation (MERSCI) Methodology is to guide the way for an innovative, collaborative approach to strengthen the protection of children from violence and maltreatment locally, nationally and internationally. This systematic methodology is a tool for government leaders, as well as national coalitions of professionals, child rights experts, NGOs working for children, and other duty-bearers and communities who are committed to preventing violence against children, and protecting children from violence, to undertake a long-tem plan to strengthen child protection policy, practice and systems.
This approach invites all stakeholders to collaborate in prioritizing child protection issues and CRC measures for short and long-term initiatives within holistic, comprehensive strategic framework and nation planning, using an approach which is realistic, incremental and sustainable over time. This systematic, assets-based approach leverages current capacity while encouraging a culturally-appropriate focus on capacity development to develop and manage stronger child protection systems to ensure positive outcomes for children. The principles followed are those of the CRC: best interests of the child, non-discrimination, right to life, survival and development, and respect for the views of the child to inform policy and practice which affects children’s lives.
Background
The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, adopted and put into force in 1989/1990, is strengthening the rights and protection of children in many countries globally. Yet serious challenges still exist. State parties, who are not only morally obligated to protect children from violence and maltreatment, but are legally obligated through their ratification of the CRC, require professional technical guidance and tools to effectively implement many aspects of the CRC on Violence Prevention and Protection of Children from Violence and Maltreatment. Many of the challenges governments face are technical, but they are possible to resolve with political, profession and public will and commitment. In order to address the challenges, this complex issue requires an integrated and systematic approach, which is both multidisciplinary and intersectoral (enabling cooperation between health, legal, education and social welfare fields.) Specifically, an effective Child Protection System and strategy requires coordinated and committed cooperation of child protection (CP) professionals working with NCO s, supported by contributions from the broader civil society, serving and working closely with informed parents/families, and finally, championed and supported by key government leaders and departments.
Contact CCWF for information on the "Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, to Support CRC Implementation" (MERSCI) Methodology.