Child Abuse Programme
The Foundation funds a range of interventions in prevention, protection, recovery-reintegration, and advocacy to address the sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of children, including trafficking.
Its current priority countries are:
- Switzerland
- Bulgaria
- Latvia
- Ethiopia
- Uganda
- Tanzania
It also supports multi-country programmes in Eastern Africa and Eastern Europe.
The Foundation supports global NGO players working in several regions of the world, as well as a small number of local NGOs from other countries, chosen by the Foundation, that demonstrate innovation and have the potential for replication.
The Programme gives priority to NGOs that seek collaboration with other actors and that work in the spirit of the principles set out below.
For further information please refer to the downloadable pamphlet: "What does the Programme do?"
Principles Guiding Oak's Child Abuse Programme
These principles are the values and approaches that Oak uses to make its funding decisions and build its partnerships. They apply to the whole of Oak's portfolio. They do not necessarily apply in whole to individual projects.
Putting the child at the centre
- Real impact on children's lives is central
- Fostering the resilience and strengths of the child, family and community, instead of viewing the child/family/community only through the lense of their "problem"
- The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is consciously integrated in programmes by partners, and their staff have knowledge and training in the convention
- Child participation, seeing the child as an actor in his/her own development rather than a passive recipient
- Stressing the self-worth, dignity and identity of the child
- Sexual abuse and sexual exploitation are cross-cutting issues
- Working with duty-bearers through advocacy and/or capacity building
- Partners are encouraged to develop and apply a child protection policy
A comprehensive approach
- A multi-sectoral and inter-disciplinary approach, sensitive to impact on the "whole child"
- A balance between care, prevention and advocacy
Learning Initiative
Please click here for information on the programme's Learning Initiative
Strategic Intent
By 2010, Oak's child abuse programme will seek to serve as a hub of a network of NGOs, donors and other stakeholders that will advance knowledge and innovation in preventing child sexual abuse and exploitation and assisting victims in their recovery.