THE CHILD SAFEGUARDING AND PROTECTION POLICY IN MISSIONARY ACTION

foundations, strategies, and institutional challenges

Abstract

This article analyzes the centrality of child and adolescent safeguarding within the scope of faith-based and social organizations, using the Child Safeguarding and Protection Policy (CSPP) of the World Missions Board as a reference framework. In light of alarming statistical data indicating the prevalence of violence against children and adolescents in private and community settings, the study discusses the need to align theological and missional praxis with international and national legal frameworks, such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Brazilian Child and Adolescent Statute (ECA). The article examines the conceptual distinction between safeguarding and protection, categorizes the various forms of violence (physical, emotional, sexual, neglect, exploitation, digital, and spiritual), and establishes structural guidelines for the development, implementation, and monitoring of institutional compliance policies and risk prevention mechanisms (accountability), based on the global standards of Keeping Children Safe.