Phnom Penh: World Vision organized a workshop on Wednesday morning, July 20 to present a report to promote positive parenting and non-violent discipline through news articles and news programs.

Speaking at the opening of the workshop, Mr. Leng Vireak, Operation Director of World Vision Cambodia, said that the information provided knowledge and influence to people, especially to change the mindset of the people.

"The role of journalists is indispensable," he said. "When you share the art of embedding the meaning that makes all those words deep in the heart, it changes people's attitudes."

Ms. Chhim Ratana, Chair of the World Vision Non-Violent Model Campaign, said at the workshop that the evaluation of the World Vision Child Protection and Involvement Program by World Vision has shown that Covid-19 has increased stress for guardian and parents due to declining incomes and parents being burdened by the closure of schools, which increased violence against children by 20%.

She added that despite the government's policy framework, strategic plans and guidelines, media and campaigns should be stepped up to prevent issues affecting children.

According to the 2013 Cambodia Violence Against Children Survey, about 53% of children have experienced some form of violence, most of which is from mothers and teachers.

Director of the Child Protection and Involvement Program at World Vision, Chhay Veasna said that the factors that lead to the use of violence in educating children include cultural factors, parental knowledge, gender inequality and legal factors.

Punishment of children will have many negative effects on children, including physical and mental health, intellectual and emotional development, social outcomes, declining education, increased violence, and increased violence against children.

It was also found to affect human resources and the economy, which could cost Cambodia $ 168 million in health services, equivalent to 1.10% of GDP, according to the report.