CRC/C/15/Add.190
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(b)
The large scale and intensity of work demands placed upon children prevents
many of them from attending school;
(c)
Some child labourers are the victims of economic exploitation and work in very
poor conditions, including without insurance or social security benefits, with very low wages, for
long hours and in dangerous and/or abusive conditions.
64.
The Committee recommends that the State party:
(a)
Make greater efforts to reduce the number of children engaged in regular
labour, with particular emphasis on younger children;
(b)
Make every effort to ensure that children do not work under conditions
which are harmful to them and receive appropriate wages and other work-related benefits;
(c)
Make every effort to ensure that those children who do work continue to
have access to formal education.
Sexual exploitation
65.
The Committee is concerned at increasing instances of sexual exploitation of children,
including through prostitution.
66.
The Committee recommends that the State party strengthen its efforts to address
the sexual exploitation of children.
Street children
67.
While taking note of the adoption by the President of a decision on 19 June 1999 “to deal
with the problem of street children”, the Committee remains concerned that:
(a)
There are large numbers of children living on the street in urban areas and that
these children are vulnerable to, among other things, sexual abuse, violence, exploitation and the
abuse of various substances and that they lack access to education and adequate health services;
(b)
68.
Street children are classified as “vagrants” in the context of government practices.
The Committee recommends that the State party:
(a)
Amend its definition and policies with regard to street children, ensuring
that these children are seen as victims of their circumstances and are not criminalized;
(b)
Make additional efforts to provide protection to children living on the street
and to ensure their access to education and health services, including substance abuse
counselling;