Bangkok--13 Nov--OHCHR-Bangkok
A United Nations human rights expert will carry out an official visit to Lao PDR from 8 to 16 November to assess the extent of child exploitation in the country and reach out to young victims.
Maud de Boer-Buquicchio, Special Rapporteur on the sale and sexual exploitation of children, said: ""I appreciate the invitation of the Government of Lao PDR to help them promote and protect the rights of children. During my visit, I will evaluate the risks and forms of exploitation of children in the country, as well as the measures already adopted to fight the problem, and the challenges that remain.""
""I will reach out to child victims of abuse, violence and exploitation, and to children in vulnerable situations, such as migrant children, those from minorities, and children placed in institutions, to take their opinions into account in my recommendations to the Government and other concerned parties,"" said Ms de Boer-Buquicchio.
The Special Rapporteur, whose mission is at the invitation of the Government, will visit a number of childcare and rehabilitation centres, and shelters for victims.
During her nine-day visit, Ms de Boer-Buquicchio will travel to the capital, Vientiane, and the provinces of Oudomxay, Champasak and Salavan. She will meet representatives of the executive, legislative and judicial powers, provincial and local authorities, representatives of non-profit associations and international NGOs, the private sector and members of the international community.
At the end of her visit, on Thursday 16 November 2017, Ms de Boer-Buquicchio will share her preliminary observations with the media at a press conference at the UN House, Lane Xang Avenue, Vientiane, at 14:00 local time. Access will be strictly limited to journalists.
The Special Rapporteur will present a comprehensive report on her visit to the UN Human Rights Council.