© UNICEF, 2008, Khoi Cao-Lam Children in Papua New Guinea remain
some of the most vulnerable children in the world. Many suffer
from domestic violence or are victims of sexual assault, while
common cultural practices, such as marrying under customary law
from 12 years of age, have increased the likelihood of the
commercial exploitation of children, particularly young girls in
sex work. Papua New Guinea’s HIV epidemic is leaving many
children particularly vulnerable - children who are affected by
HIV are more likely to be orphaned, drop out of school, live in
child-headed households and experience stigmatization and
discrimination Addressing violence against children is UNICEF’s
priority and is an initiative that must be supported as
children’s welfare and chances of survival are at stake. The
UNICEF Child Protection Programme supports national, provincial
and district level efforts by Government, civil society and
village leaders to protect children vulnerable to violence,
abuse and exploitation. Child Abuse/