What Is Happening at 'Zatik': New Report

The 'Zatik' Children's Support Center has been revisited by an observational group following a controversial prior visit. The group has compiled a report regarding the visit. The most pressing issues are outlined below.

During the March 29 visit, information was received about physical and sexual violence, which the members of the observational group noted in the boys' group. These abuses are still continuing. During the visit, the observational group members noticed children with injuries and bruises.

On May 3, the observational group members observed noticeable tension from the children towards the staff. The children again reported mistreatment by other children, including physical violence. For instance, older boys may “hit” younger ones when the latter disturb their sleep.

Children reported being threatened, saying “you will see what happens to you” if they complained to the observers. According to one child, a staff member said, “What has changed since your observers came?” implying that even the visit of the observational group did not make a difference. Children remarked, “It’s all in their hands,” referring to the staff, adding that they are threatened, such as with being transferred to the Gavar orphanage.

Children are also dissatisfied that “they are given very little, like just one candy.” One child reported mistreatment, including physical violence, by police officers, particularly pointing out one officer. According to them, one officer said, “Complain to whoever you want.” Children shared that only one nanny had stopped the police from hitting the boys, but she no longer works there.

During the visit, members of the observational group noted two children with bruises. One of these children mentioned having fallen. The information was factually contradictory and concerning, especially considering one child's evident fear during interactions with an older boy, as well as one child requesting to change rooms due to a dispute among the children. The registry for recording violence, although mandatory, was absent.

The right to sexual and reproductive health of adolescents is being violated. The observational group noted during their first visit that the rights of adolescents in care regarding their sexual and reproductive health are being violated. They are not receiving private and supportive consultation on issues of sexual maturation and sexual health.

This issue was also recorded during the May 3 visit. Although a staff member reported that they regularly discuss sexual and reproductive health issues with the girls, they simultaneously stated that “if we talk about such topics with adolescents, their thoughts will go there; it’s better not to talk. It’s better to teach girls modesty than about protective measures.”

During this visit, several children again raised concerns about the scarcity and poor quality of hygiene supplies. Specifically, some girls reported that only one pad is provided daily. Many children, as during the previous visit, noted that they mainly use hygiene products brought by their family members.

Overcrowding. The age differences among children, varying behavioral manifestations, health conditions, and insufficient space make it impossible to ensure dignified living conditions. Inappropriate compliance with established standards regarding personal space in bedrooms, insufficient individual shelves, and low temperature issues have been recorded.