Mapping and analysis of the child protection system in Sierra Leone

This mapping and assessment of the child protection system in Sierra Leone is part of a wider West and Central African regional initiative and has been supported financially and technically by a regional reference group composed by Plan International, Save the Children Sweden and Finland, Terre des Hommes, and UNICEF. The mapping and analysis undertaken in late 2009 reveals that the existing laws, structures and services for the protection of children are not achieving their intended impact on the lives of children and young people. Although actors at several levels are committing considerable resources to child protection initiatives, indicators demonstrate that a large percentage of children still face abuse, violence, neglect, and exploitation in their daily lives. Key findings of this report demonstrate the urgent need to launch a more focused national dialogue and action plan for the development of a sustainable child protection and welfare system.