A comparative study of policy approach for child protection in Goa and Singapore

Abstract

This article makes a comparison between a progressive state of India, Goa, and Singapore with reference to their policy approach for child protection with reference to the Convention on the Rights of the Child and Recommendations of the Committee on the Rights of the Child. Comparisons are made for the overall measures for promoting child rights, legislation for child protection, role of the nodal ministry/department and alternative childcare. Efforts are made to identify the similarities and differences between the two. In conclusion, recommendations are drawn for child protection measures in both the places and for the methodology of comparative reviews. The article is based on a larger exploratory comparative study of child protection situation and measures that was carried out between Goa and Singapore. The two were found to be comparable as they are similar with reference to the Asian cultural context and comparable historical, economic and demographic profiles. The sources of information for the project were literature review and visits to institutions and meetings with the key personnel. © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.