Cambodia's young are still prey to sexual predators and deceit from at home and abroad, a rights investigator said Monday.
Children can be sold or tricked into the sex trade in the provinces and Phnom Penh, or trafficked abroad for sex or labor, said Thav Kimsan, a child rates coordinator for the rights group Licadho.
The practice can be hard to fight, but victims should report to those they most trust—like their mother or other authority—if they suspect abuse, exploitation or potential trafficking, Thav Kimsan said, as a guest on "Hello VOA."
"There is shame for victims when they are victimized, but relatives should be aware if something abnormal is happening to a family member," he said.
Children are sometimes forced into labor, or work in begging rings, including those younger than 15, which is illegal, Thav Kimsan said.
Children who face physical violence, sexual abuse or overwork are protected under strong laws, where violators can be severely prosecuted, he said.
