Enfants lutteurs : Madjiguene Diop (CAPE) s'insurge contre l'exploitation des mineurs dans l'arène (2/2)
A video that went viral on social media and YouTube has sparked outrage in Dakar. The footage, broadcast notably on the Sen Leader channel, shows children aged 7 to 10 wrestling in a staged display mimicking professional wrestling matches. This practice, which has caused shock and concern, has reignited the debate on respect for children's rights and protection in Senegal.
Faced with this alarming situation, the Child Protection Support Unit (CAPE), headed by Ms. Madjiguène Diop, broke its silence to vigorously denounce these practices, which it describes as deeply worrying.
“At this age, a child must be protected, educated and grow up in a safe environment. Senegalese law imposes compulsory schooling for all children aged 6 to 16. Any activity that diverts a child from school or endangers their physical and psychological integrity should alert us,” recalls the coordinator of CAPE.
Although wrestling is an important part of Senegal's cultural heritage, its practice by very young children, without strict supervision, poses a serious problem of compatibility with the fundamental rights of the developing human being.
Multiple and serious risks
According to CAPE, the dangers associated with early intervention are numerous. Physically, children are exposed to injuries, violent impacts, trauma, and potential harm to their growth. Psychologically, they may experience stress, fear, excessive family or social pressure, as well as a premature normalization of violence.
The risks associated with schooling are also highlighted: dropping out of school, absenteeism, declining performance, and an imbalance between studies, rest, and leisure. In the long term, these practices can lead to lasting physical consequences and academic failure, limiting future prospects, especially since very few children actually manage to forge a career in professional wrestling.
A call for collective responsibility
For CAPE, the urgency is clear. Parents must be made more aware of compulsory schooling and the dangers of early wrestling. The supervision of sports activities involving minors must be strictly regulated with the involvement of local, school, and sports authorities.
Ms. Madjiguène Diop also emphasizes the need to develop suitable recreational spaces that promote educational, fun, and non-violent physical activities, respectful of children's development. "In its competitive and violent form, wrestling is not suitable for 8- to 9-year-olds. The right to leisure is recognized, but it must be exercised within a protective framework, without violence," she asserts.
The CAPE (Confederation of Parents of Children) is finally sending a clear message to parents and authorities. To the former, it reminds them that their primary responsibility is to protect their children and keep them in school. To the latter, it calls for stricter controls, regulations, and supervision of sports activities involving minors. This is a strong appeal to ensure that children's rights take precedence over all other considerations.
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