Children rely on adults to keep them safe from abuse. No matter where we are, we carry this responsibility with us. As travellers, we have the potential to help or harm the communities we visit. Be a child safe traveller.
Children rely on adults to keep them safe from abuse. No matter where we are in the world, we each have a responsibility towards ensuring that all children are free from physical, emotional and sexual abuse.
Children who live and work on the streets are especially vulnerable to physical, emotional and sexual abuse. Sometimes these children are exploited to beg or work on the street by adults.
Children in tourist areas are especially vulnerable to physical, emotional and sexual abuse. The tourism industry has enormous power and potential to help make it safer for children.
Good intentions are not enough. Sometimes without realising it, we do things that inadvertently put children at risk of harm.
While we may feel that interacting with local children is a special experience, it actually has the potential to be detrimental to them. It teaches children to socialise with strangers, who may not always have their best intentions in mind.
Sexual activity with children is against the law. According to international conventions, a child is anyone under the age of 18 years.
Treat children and parents with respect – just like you would at home. Always ask permission from the child and their parent or guardian before taking a photo.
Many people are aware of child exploitation, but often feel helpless about how they can change it. However, our small actions can make a big difference.