In the Vitebsk region, approximately 150 crimes related to paedophilia were detected in 2018. Of these, no more than ten were reported by the parents of the victims. Moreover, the number of boy victims was twice the number of girl victims.
Paedophilia victims are defenceless, but the most frightening thing is that even when children tell their parents about something similar, the parents often do not believe them.
There have been numerous cases where a woman with children from a previous marriage was surprised how her second husband could have abused her daughters or sons, claiming he was always only at work or at home with her. However, while the wife was absent, he would return and commit the crime with impunity. The biggest mistake in such a situation is to deal with the alleged abuser yourself. Firstly, he will deny everything, secondly, he will be able to develop a defence strategy, and finally, he may simply flee.
Therefore, if there is a suspicion of violence against a child, one should consult a psychologist to help determine if this is the case. And if the child specifically indicates an act of violence, it is necessary to go to the police immediately.
In the Vitebsk region, there are two specialised socio-pedagogical centres focused on working with children who have become victims of sexual violence. One is located in Vitebsk, the second in Novopolotsk.
The centre has a child-friendly interview room for victims and witnesses of violence. The entire process of the psychologist's communication with the child is video-recorded and an audio recording of the interview is made. All information is saved on a disk, which is used by the court as evidence of the victim's testimony. This way, children do not have to face their abuser. Both the centre's psychologists and investigators do their utmost to protect the child from psychological trauma.
Children often blame themselves for what happened: they didn't scream, didn't resist, didn't fight back… However, the balance of physical strength is always on the side of the adult. Therefore, it is necessary to help the child overcome the burden of guilt.
Even if your son or daughter is going through puberty, listen to them when they come to you for help. It is better to consult a psychologist and be reassured that your fears were unfounded than to leave your child alone with their suffering.
Any drastic change in your child's behaviour is a cause for concern, but when a child stops looking you in the eye and flinches at every touch, it is time to raise the alarm.
The socio-pedagogical centre can be contacted by phone: 8 (0212) 64-35-37, 64-35-36, including anonymously; help is always available here.
Violence against children leads to mental and physical health deviations, and the health of children is the future of the nation. Those who commit such acts against a child lose all moral standing and must be held accountable as prescribed by law, as their impunity can lead to new and more brutal crimes.
Any information about individuals committing sexual violence against minors can be reported by you to the Lepel District Department of Internal Affairs by phone: (02132) 3-20-83, 4-18-40, (029) 710-27-89 (MTS) or 102.