We invite representatives of the Nordic and Baltic countries to the seminar to co-operate in reducing corporal punishment of children. Our aim is compare methods and work out ways in which to prevent corporal punishment and, thus, to ensure children the right to integrity and to help them towards harmonious development.

Come and help create a good environment for children to grow up in!

Corporal punishment is forbidden by law in the Nordic countries. Despite this, many children are faced with violence in their everyday life. Research has shown that even a low level of exposure to violence is harmful to children. Children also learn their models for resolving conflicts at home. You are very welcome to join us in giving a chance for children to grow up in an understanding and inclusive atmosphere.

We invite representatives of the Nordic and Baltic countries to the seminar to co-operate in reducing corporal punishment of children. Our aim is compare methods and work out ways in which to prevent corporal punishment and, thus, to ensure children the right to integrity and to help them towards harmonious development. The seminar will include presentations of the latest research results on the impact of violence on children.

Presentations will be heard on good practices that are already in use in the Nordic countries, and seminar participants will work together to create common Nordic strategies and guidelines. The aim is to raise discussion over the issue and to support the Baltic countries in creating legislation against corporal punishment .

The head speaker at the seminar is Professor Murray Straus from the University of New Hampshire. The seminar is intended for Nordic and Baltic representatives of central and local government agencies and NGOs that work with children.

The seminar is part of the programme during Finland’s presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers and also of Finland’s national action plan to reduce corporal punishment of children 2010–2015.
The action plan is available online at the homepage of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health.

Additional information: Urpo Uusitalo, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , (09) 4350 2449