Q Should a register of child sex abuse offenders be established?
A 'name-and-shame' register brings more disadvantages than advantages. First, it would raise concerns about who should be on the list and who could access the information. Would it be open to the public or restricted to authorised people and organisations? Unless there was a balanced disclosure policy, the privacy of offenders might be severely violated. The register would have a permanent labelling effect on offenders so, even if they decided to reform, they would face discrimination trying to find jobs and places to live. Second, not many offenders have jobs involving children. Therefore, the register's intention of preventing offenders getting jobs involving contact with children would not be realised.
Paedophiles can easily pick up a victim anywhere, at any time - the victim is not necessarily someone they know or live near.
Meanwhile, we should consider comprehensive public education on child protection. We should send a clear message across the city that everyone bears the responsibility to protect children. When tragedies occur, psychological treatment should be provided to both abuse victims and offenders. Professional counselling could help victims face and overcome the trauma and resume a normal life. It could also prevent victims from becoming potential offenders and convicted offenders from re-offending.
Rachel Lo, Shamshuipo
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