WILLEMSTAD - On the European Day Against Child Abuse, Minister of Justice Shalten Hato marked a significant milestone: exactly one year since Curaçao launched the “Kiko i e Man” child-protection awareness campaign. Designed to teach children about personal safety and to condemn all forms of abuse, the campaign has quickly become a cornerstone of the island’s national prevention and education efforts.
The campaign was first introduced by Minister Hato in June 2024 during an official working visit to the Council of Europe in Strasbourg. Immediately after the presentation, Hato committed to implementing the campaign in Curaçao. One year later, “Kiko i e Man” is now widely recognized as an essential tool for awareness, prevention, and teaching children how to stay safe.
A symbol of care — and a warning
“Kiko i e Man” focuses on the symbol of the hand: representing care, protection, and support. But it also teaches children to recognize unwanted or inappropriate physical contact and empowers them to speak up.
Minister Hato emphasized that while physical contact is part of Curaçao’s culture, children must be taught to distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate touch.
New materials launched: jingle and awareness videos
To celebrate the one-year anniversary, the Minister unveiled a new campaign jingle, sung by Jada van Dijk, composed by Roshendly Martina (Roshdrums), and arranged by Angelo Borrell Dopwell (Dopwell Music). The song aims to help children understand that their bodies deserve protection—and that no adult is allowed to touch their private parts.
Two new awareness videos, produced by Pelíkula Studios, were also released. All audio and video materials will be made available to schools, parents, and child-care professionals, strengthening island-wide outreach.
“Speak up. Don’t stay silent.”
During the event, Minister Hato delivered a clear message to children:
“Don’t let anyone touch you in a way that doesn’t feel right. Speak up. Don’t stay silent.”
The Ministry also announced that the “Kiko i e Man” campaign will continue visiting more schools in the coming months to bring its message directly to as many children as possible.
