Social Work Initiative for Development

The Role of Social Workers in Child Protection

Social workers play a key role in safeguarding children’s rights, safety, and well-being in Burundi. They collaborate with families, communities, schools, health services, law enforcement, and the justice system to prevent and respond to child abuse.

👨🏽‍💼 Key Responsibilities

Identify and report abuse through schools, health centers, and community networks

Provide psychosocial support to help children recover from trauma

Manage cases and make referrals to medical, legal, and protection services

Support family mediation and safe reintegration
Promote prevention and awareness** on children’s rights

Abuse Cases & Response Examples

Physical abuse: Ensure child safety, report the case, and provide counseling

Sexual abuse:Facilitate urgent medical care, psychosocial support, and legal action while ensuring confidentiality

Neglect:Support families and link them to social assistance

Child labor: Withdraw children from labor and reintegrate them into school

Early/forced marriage: Intervene with authorities and protect the child

Social services delivery should be guided by 👇🏾