Contextual Factors Shaping the Implementation of Children’s Rights and Protection in Ethiopia’s Amhara Region

Evidence from Women, Children, and Social Affairs Professionals

Abstract

The implementation of children’s rights and protection is affected by different contextual antecedents. This study investigated the socio-cultural, economic, political, and legal antecedents influencing the implementation of children’s rights and protection in Amhara Region. A concurrent mixed-methods research design was employed. Quantitative data were collected through survey questionnaires from 368 Women, Children, and Social Affairs workforces, while qualitative data were obtained from seven key informants using semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using Pearson correlation analysis, and qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. The quantitative findings revealed that all four contextual antecedents significantly influenced the implementation of children’s rights and protection. Socio-cultural factors demonstrated the highest positive relationship (r = 0.737, p < .001), followed by political (r = 0.630, p < .001), legal (r = 0.584, p < .001), and economic factors (r = 0.562, p < .001). Qualitative findings further indicated that supportive cultural values, strong political commitment, effective governance, robust legal frameworks, and adequate resources enhanced implementation. Harmful traditions, political instability, weak legal enforcement, and poverty impeded implementation. The study recommends strengthening public awareness, political commitment, legal enforcement, and resource allocation to improve the effective implementation of children’s rights and protection in the Amhara Region.