Submitted by crinadmin on
[17 February 2012] - The authors of the amendments suggest questioning a child victim only once according to certain standards and laws. They believe that interrogation is best done in a specially equipped room, preferably in a child care centre, BelTA informs. Andrei Makhanko notes that sexually abused children rarely testify in court in Belarus, as judges are generally satisfied with the evidence gathered during the preliminary investigation. He says that a number of proposals of "Understanding" have already been reflected in the draft national plan of action for the protection of children and their rights for 2012-2016. Thus, the project includes proposals for the development of a room for interrogation that is child-friendly, as well as rehabilitation services for abused children. Some initiatives may be implemented in the near future. "This means that the dialogue is being conducted and the proposals of civil society are being implemented in practice," considers the head of "Understanding." Further Information: