Sex Offenders Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Sex Offenders - Essay Example Robinson E.H. (1989:23) observes that cases of sexual abuse are rampant in poor communities and they often go unnoticed or reported. The lack of proper education coupled with the absence of a complete family unit in some cases in the African context, is cause for serious concern with regards to the increasing cases of sexual abuse. The family unit should form the basis for a conducive atmosphere which is morally and intellectually sound to develop the full potential of the child and give it a sense of belonging and values. It is against this background that the protection of the rights of children is given due prominence internationally. Principle 2 of The Declaration of The Rights of The Child proclaimed by the General Assembly of the United Nations on 20 November 1959 states that: The child shall enjoy special protection and shall be given opportunities and facilities, by law and by other means to enable him to develop physically, mentally, morally, spiritually and socially in a healthy and normal manner and in conditions of freedom and dignity. In this regard it can be noted that the issue of especially child sexual abuse is given priority by international bodies hence the enactment of laws shall always be in the best interest of the child. There are varying jail terms for sexual offenders depending on the magnitude of the offence. Sexual offenders usually commit these crimes under the influence of alcohol. Excessive consumption weakens the person’s ability to have self control and in some cases increases aggression. Unmarried man usually commit sexual offences more frequently than married men who are able to satisfy their sexual urge. According to the United Nations report based on the study of â€Å"Violence Against Children† (2006), more than 200 million children have been sexually abused the world over and it blames this