26 Jan 2005

PNG children have grim future

3:28 pm on 26 January 2005

A survey in Papua New Guinea has revealed that the plight of orphans and vulnerable children in Papua New Guinea is getting worse.

A situation assessment of orphans and vulnerable children in PNG was carried out by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).

According to the report, 11,000 children have already been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, and in addition, nearly ten thousand children have been orphaned by the virus.

The report says vulnerable children get no support from the traditional social system, while those who in the care of extended family members often become domestic and/or sex slaves.

The National newspaper reports the survey was conducted in consultation with 50 ng NGOs and community-based organisations.