Human trafficking: The photo file shows visitors passing under a giant banners warning of the evils of human trafficking in the main lobby of the House of Representatives building when the lawmakers deliberated the bill on the subject in 2005. (JP/R. Berto Wedhatama)
The global economic crisis has forced a greater number of children into the workforce, particularly girls, many of whom are exploited for sex, the International Labor Organization said. "Recent global estimates indicate the number of child workers had been falling. But the financial crisis that began in late 2008 is threatening to erode this progress," Patrick Daru, chief technical adviser at the ILO's Jakarta office, said Thursday at a press conference.
The crisis has exacerbated the income problems of poor families around the world, including in Indonesia, making them tend to send their children to work rather than to school. "This is the supply and demand theory at work," he added. "Employers use child labor because they're cheaper, while families also need additional income." The ILO is focusing on girl workers for this year's World Day Against Child Labor on June 12. "The ratio of girl to boy workers has increased significantly during the past few years," said Arum Ratnawati, the ILO Jakarta technical adviser.
Your comments:,
This is a rather ironic comment from the head of ILO Jakarta, identifying the governments already on track.
Why even bring in allegations related to discos. He totally overlooks the notion that you have to be over 18 to enter discos, hotels etc and who is to blame here if everything is on track.
Iwan
The ILO's report about Indonesian children being exploited for sex makes me worry about the future of our beloved nation.
Children are the backbone of our nation in the future. If they are involved in this sex exploitation, then who will become the participants in building our nation in the coming years?
The government has to pay serious attention to poor families. It is the root of the problem. Giving scholarships to children of lower-income families, for example, will minimize the degree of sex exploitation among the children.
Yongki Wawo
As an expatriate having worked in Jakarta, I feel something practical needs to be done very urgently. It's tragic. Your young ones are being exploited and led astray by nasty elements of society who seem to congregate in Indonesia. How can one help financially and practically?
Is there an organization or organizations which are already doing something to take care of the vulnerable young people and also provide education? Education is the key for the youth to gain a decent living and dignity. The Jakarta Post can initiate something and people like myself, who can contribute substantially, will help.
MP
