Mount Lebanon Investigative Judge ruling on juvenile cases, Joelle Abou Haidar ordered the closure of the “Village of Peace and Love” association and sealing its operations due to shocking violations against the minors under its care.
This Is Beirut had access to the official judicial decision sent by Judge Abou Haidar to Samer Lichaa, the Advocate General of the Mount Lebanon Court of Appeal.
The director of the NGO, who was apprehended by law enforcement, is facing multiple charges, including human trafficking, forced and illegal labor of minors without pay, protecting an individual accused of sexually harassing the underage girls sheltered by the organization, and even compelling minors to consume alcohol in nightclubs, leading one of them to attempt suicide…
Following accusations of sexual harassment, authorities initiated an investigation in March.
Additionally, the Chairwoman of the Parliamentary Committee for Mother and Child, Inaya Ezzedine, urgently called on security and judicial authorities on Saturday to “take decisive measures and impose strong sanctions against those responsible for rape and various forms of violence targeting children, girls, and women.” She expressed deep concern over the recent rise in such incidents, deeming it alarming and dangerous.
She also emphasized the need for an immediate action plan, involving all relevant stakeholders, starting with a comprehensive investigation to address any legislative loopholes and ensuring stringent legal consequences as a deterrent. In the absence of such measures, she advocated for necessary amendments and strict enforcement of the laws, along with educational, media, and societal efforts to curb these crimes.
Mrs. Ezzedine further disclosed her plan to convene a meeting of the parliamentary commission to understand the actual scope and reality of these issues. The objective is to initiate a monitoring and intervention mechanism, based on accurate data and collaboration with all relevant authorities.
