Ombudsman Says Suicide Rate in Underage up by 20%

The Public Defender of Georgia, Nino Lomjaria, has said that suicide cases and suicide attempts have increased in Georgia by 20% in recent years.

The Ombudsman made the statement in her interview with Palitra TV program, 360 Degrees.

She underlined that problems related to children and particularly teenagers are alarming in a number of directions.

“The suicide rate is significantly higher in the underage: 20% higher compared to previous years. This indicates that the state does not have a systemic approach to violence against children and even in the fight against bullying,” she added.

Lomjaria says that, in general, violence against children is very common in Georgia, adding it is a “hidden problem” in the country.

“Children's rights are ignored by adults. Violence is a very frequent and acute problem in families as well as in educational institutions. Violence against children in schools is a commonly accepted and widespread issue, which is normal for a greater part of teachers as well as for children,” she said.

The Public Defender added that Georgia does not even have a shelter for of sexual abuse victim children, adding this highlights the country faces problems in this field.

“In fact, we do not have a support system for affected children,” Lomjaria stressed.

By Thea Morrison