RIYADH, 11 May 2009: The situation of children in Saudi Arabia was at the center of discussions between Ms. Sigrid Kaag, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, and with the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and other senior Saudi officials.
– We are encouraged by the progress that Saudi Arabia has made in protecting children’s rights and are confident that more will be done to ensure that all children are safe from harm, abuse and exploitation, Kaag said at the end of a two-day visit to the Saudi Kingdom.
According to national statistics, 93 per cent of Saudi children are attending primary school and the country is on track to achieve universal primary education by the year 2015.
UNICEF estimates the under-five mortality rate in Saudi Arabia at 25 per 1.000 live births, a significant decrease from 44 per 1.000 live births in 1990.
More needs to be done, however, to address issues including the protection of children from trafficking, violence and harmful practices like early marriage. – We welcome the resolve of Saudi authorities in addressing the issue of child marriage, said Kaag.
Kaag’s talks with King Abdullah highlighted the vision of the Kingdom on children’s rights in Islam, in particular the ongoing discussion on child marriage. – We are gratified by the assurances given by His Majesty the Custodian of the two Holy Mosques and senior officials on the prominent place of children’s welfare and protection, in particular addressing child marriage, she said.
UNICEF works closely with the Saudi government and other partners to fully realize children’s rights through addressing youth and adolescent needs and issues, preventing domestic violence, abuse, and child trafficking, and protecting children who come into contact with the law.
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