Growing use of children in demonstrations in Nepal worries UNICEF

United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has expressed grave concern over the growing tendencies of using children by adults in demonstrations and rallies in Nepal.

Issuing a press statement here on Friday, the UNICEF representative to Nepal, Suomi Sakai said, "We are worried about their safety, we are worried that they are missing school, and we are not at all sure that they have the consent of their parents or guardians."

She further said, "While children do have the right to freedom of expression under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, their parents and guardians also have the right and responsibility to ensure that children are exercising their rights in an age- appropriate manner."

"Organizers of any demonstration or public gathering have a responsibility to ensure that any children participating do have the consent of their parents," Sakai added.

The statement came at a time, the guerrillas affiliated student organizations has been using children in its various programs including demonstrations and rallies in protest against the government.

She urged the organizers of rallies not to put children into situations that could put them at physical risk or offer them enticements such as food or money in order to participate.

Source: Xinhua