In a progressive move, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has directed relevant ministries to develop financial support programs for pregnan...
In a progressive move, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has directed relevant ministries to develop financial support programs for pregnant women in prison. This initiative aims to provide benefits similar to those available to government officials and factory workers, ensuring equitable treatment and support for incarcerated pregnant women.
Hun Manet emphasized the importance of this initiative during a graduation ceremony at the National Institute of Education in Phnom Penh on July 4. He highlighted the necessity of offering support to pregnant women in prison, stating, "A mother may have committed a crime, but the child is innocent."
The Prime Minister instructed Chea Somethy, the Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans, and Youth Rehabilitation, and Heng Sour, the Minister of Labor and Vocational Training, to collaborate on structuring this financial support. This program aims to provide essential benefits to pregnant women in custody, recognizing the unique challenges they face.
Hun Manet underscored the humanitarian aspect of this initiative, explaining that while the mother must face consequences for her actions, the unborn child should not be penalized. "A mother who commits a mistake must be held accountable, but when she is pregnant, the child is innocent and should receive appropriate benefits," he stated.
The Cambodian government already has a support program in place for pregnant women and children under two years of age from families with social equity cards. This program, which began on August 1, 2023, provides financial support to ensure proper prenatal care and postnatal health services.
Under this program, pregnant women receive 80,000 riels for each of the four prenatal checkups. Additionally, they receive support during childbirth, with 400,000 riels for a single birth, 600,000 riels for twins, and 800,000 riels for triplets. Postnatal care for both the mother and child includes three checkups, each accompanied by a grant of 80,000 riels.
For children up to two years old, the program provides seven checkups, with each visit ensuring a financial support of 80,000 riels. This comprehensive support system encourages expecting mothers to seek regular medical advice, ensuring their health and the health of their babies.
The financial assistance program is designed to motivate pregnant women to undergo regular checkups, deliver their babies safely in public health facilities, and follow vaccination schedules for their newborns. By providing these benefits, the government aims to enhance maternal and child health outcomes across the country.
This new initiative for incarcerated pregnant women reflects the Cambodian government's commitment to ensuring that all women, regardless of their circumstances, receive the support they need during pregnancy. It is a step towards promoting health equity and compassion within the criminal justice system.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Hun Manet's directive to extend financial support to pregnant women in prison is a significant move towards recognizing and addressing the needs of a vulnerable population. This initiative not only highlights the government's commitment to maternal and child health but also underscores the importance of humane treatment and support for all individuals, irrespective of their legal status.
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