Dr Zanetor Rawlings calls for national sex offenders register to protect children

The Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has called for the establishment of a national sex offenders register as part of efforts to strengthen child protection and curb sexual abuse against children.

Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, November 10, she urged the House and relevant state institutions to urgently consider the proposal and strengthen existing child protection systems.

Dr Agyeman-Rawlings said the country's commitment to protecting children should be reflected not only in the laws it passes but also in how it safeguards vulnerable members of society.

“Mr Speaker, the measure of our civilisation and decency is not found merely in the laws we pass or conventions we ratify. It is found in how we treat those who are most vulnerable and least able to defend themselves,” she said.

The Korle Klottey MP expressed concern about what she described as the recurring public outrage over cases of child sexual abuse, which often fades without sustained action to address the problem.

“We cannot continue to express outrage whenever another child is violated, only to return to business as usual when the headlines fade. Our children should not have to be extraordinarily brave simply to be safe,” she told Parliament.

The MP said establishing a national sex offenders register would help restore accountability and send a clear message that sexual abuse against children would not be tolerated.

“I therefore urge this honourable House and relevant state institutions to urgently consider and discuss the establishment of a national sex offenders register and the strengthening of our child protection systems,” she said.

“Let us restore accountability, let us restore our moral compass and let us send an unequivocal message to the sexual abuse of children that the sexual abuse of children will not be tolerated nor excused in our society,” she added.