LICADHO is organizing a march against child trafficking and sexual abuse in Sihanoukville this Friday, August 24. The march, themed: "Let's work together to combat child trafficking and sexual exploitation", aims to spread awareness about these forms of abuse and the devastating effects they have on children.

The march will begin at LICADHO’s office in Sihanoukville, on Ekareach road at 8.30am and end at the Municipal Theater at 11.30am. A total of 400 participants will participate, including members of Child Protection Groups and Networks formed by LICADHO1, local government officials, police officers and staff of NGO's, such as LICADHO, M’Lop Tapang, LAC, CCBO and APLE.

During the march, leaflets will be distributed to the public with information about the need to protect children from trafficking and sexual exploitation. The participants in the march will wear t-shirts and caps and banners will be held with messages including; "Let's work together to combat child trafficking and sexual exploitation of children", "Stop child trafficking and sexual exploitation", "Sexually abuse a child; end up in prison for 15-20 years", "Respect children; don't abuse them" and "Give children a future; stop trafficking and sexual abuse of children".

It is hoped that the event will help to encourage government officials, police and members of the public, including tourists, to work together to protect children from such abuse.

Child trafficking and exploitation remains a significant problem in Cambodia, despite the law containing harsh punishments for people involved in these crimes. During 2006 and the first half year of 2007 LICADHO intervened in a total of 43 cases of child trafficking related to sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse.

For more information, please contact:
▪ Dr. Kek Galabru, President Licadho Tel: 012 940 645
▪ Mr. Thav Kimsan, Child Rights Coordinator, Licadho Tel: 012 813 101

PDF: Download full statement in English - Download full statement in Khmer