Children are one of the most vulnerable groups in Cambodian society since they can least defend themselves. In addition to such various problems as poverty, malnutrition, education and health care, an increasing number of Cambodian children are at risk or have become victims of violence, crimes and various other forms of abuses.

For legal representations, PJJ has found out a lot more issues underlying each of the cases, especially those of sexual exploitation/trafficking which are considered to be the most pressing issues. Because of the lack of the knowledge and understanding of the law and the corruption in the system, many children have to suffer and experienced injustice.

However, little attention is often paid to children who get into trouble with the law of Cambodia. While many child offenders are sentenced to imprisonment and others detained in custody awaiting trial, more children continue becoming victims of abuses, trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation. The victimized and abused children desperately need justice and are waiting for every one of us to help them.

As recognized under the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Cambodian Constitution, children need special protection due to their physical and psychological vulnerabilities. More and more young girls are getting turned into victims of trafficking and sexual abuses, while an increasing number of young boys have come into conflict with the law or have been mistakenly accused of crimes. In this sense, the children have no choice but to suffer from these nightmares.

To deal with the current situation facing these children, pro bono legal aid with a focus on children is crucial to ensure that their rights are respected and protectedand that they lead a happy life, grow at their own pace, and use all their potentials for national development.