The recent probe into historical instances of sexual harassment within academic institutions has once again heightened national awareness of this troubling issue. Astonishing figures indicate that nearly 2,400 accusations span 308 different schools, prompting individuals to eagerly scour the report for indications of their own school’s involvement.
The unveiling of such an overwhelming amount of alarming information might compel victims who have begun to cope with their past traumas to confront those experiences again. Conversely, it may persuade those who have suffered in silence, never having shared their stories, to seek help.
The report underscores the entrenched backdrop of abuse and secrecy pervasive in these institutions. Eyewitness accounts from survivors suggest how figures of authority and other adults often endorsed abuse through their inaction and failure to respond appropriately. Instances of abuse frequently transpired in full view of classmates, with officials, including school principals, being directly cognisant of the abuses — even turning a blind eye to ongoing acts of rape.
Such inaction established a conspiratorial atmosphere of silence within the schools and communities, enabling the continued unregulated abuse.
The findings align with prior investigations such as those conducted in Ferns, Ryan, and Murphy, depicting an institutional trend of failing to protect children. Educational institutions that pledged the safety of children consistently disappointed in fulfilling this fundamental obligation. Each inquiry disclosed similar oversights and unveiled a more profound societal issue, namely the reluctance to acknowledge and confront the disturbing reality of childhood sexual abuse.
The formation of a Commission of Investigation into historical abuses is undoubtedly critical. However, it is not to let this retrospective focus on past inadequacies overshadow the challenges of the present.
Despite offering new avenues for childhood development, the digital age also introduces substantial risks. Previously, children were at risk from those within their community, but now the threats have become global. We have to face the fact that we’ve only just started to comprehend these dangers but have not sufficiently implemented necessary protections. If no action is taken soon, these contemporary forms of abuse may be subject to future inquiries, much like those we currently undertake into historic crimes and safeguarding failures — with the critical exception that these abuses are happening today.
A recent study by CyberSafeKids titled “Left to Their Own Devices” has brought to light unsettling realities about online safety for younger users. The investigation revealed that 8% of children between eight and twelve years old have played online games with unknown individuals. Shockingly, virtually 65% encountered contact from a stranger while participating in an online game. A concerning 55% of children from eight to twelve years old did not inform a parent about harmful content or unrequested contact, with this percentage rising to 63% amongst those aged 12 to 14 years.
The emergence of the digital world has opened new possibilities for harmful interactions, reflecting dangers inherent in real-life experiences. This correlation underscores the necessity of a comprehensive strategy that tackles the risks both online and offline. Despite differing contexts, there are similar issues in how established threats to youngsters are not being addressed appropriately by tech firms, social media giants, and law-makers. There is a risk of blindly putting faith in contemporary establishments and thereby repeating past mistakes.
The “Left to Their Own Devices” study accentuates the urgency for active steps to safeguard children in the cyber realm, similar to the demand for robust child protection regulations in place for real-world organisations.
Disturbingly, statistics from the Central Statistics Office indicate that rates of child sexual harassment have not dwindled, despite increased awareness and enhanced laws. An alarming 29% of Irish adults underwent sexual violence during their childhood. A higher proportion of women (36%) reported these experiences compared to men (22%).
These statistics are a stark reminder that child sexual abuse continues to be a critical issue in contemporary Ireland that requires a radical strategy. Our collective hesitation in acknowledging this harsh truth has let this issue persist, inflicting immeasurable damage. It is time we confront the multifaceted nature of child sexual abuse with a systematic response.
There is a distinct need for societal change in viewing, discussing and reacting to child sexual abuse so it is not perpetuated for future generations. Collaborative action from educators, parents, bystanders, policymakers and tech companies is needed. This necessitates a shift in societal perceptions, enhancement of education and support systems, as well as a spotlight on preventive and interventionary measures.
The obligation to challenge the culture of silence and scepticism should not rest solely on the victims and survivors. Society as a whole must shift its perspectives on how it perceives, discusses and responds to child sexual abuse to prevent its continuation.
Despite strides forward in the realms of social justice and child safety in Ireland, the measures taken towards preventing child sexual abuse are glaringly insufficient. We need to push past our complacency and refusal to accept this reality. Only by confronting this problem directly, with sensitivity towards the victims and dedication to prevention, can we strive to establish a more secure future for all children in Ireland.
The CEO of One in Four, Deirdre Kenny, offers assistance to adults who have experienced sexual abuse during their childhood. Feel free to reach out on +353 1 662 4070 or via email at info@oneinfour.ie. More information can be found on www.oneinfour.ie.