The situation of children in Saudi Arabia was at the center of discussions that UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa Sigrid Kaag had with King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, and other senior Saudi officials. “We are encouraged by the progress that Saudi Arabia has made in protecting children's rights and are confident that more will be done to ensure that all children are safe from harm, abuse and exploitation,” Kaag said at the end of a two-day visit to the Kingdom. According to national statistics, 93 percent of Saudi children are attending primary school and the country is on track to achieve universal primary education by 2015. UNICEF estimates the under-five mortality rate in Saudi Arabia at 25 per 1,000 live births, a significant decrease from 44 per 1,000 live births in 1990. More needs to be done, however, to address issues including the protection of children from trafficking, violence and harmful practices like early marriage. Kaag's talks with King Abdullah highlighted the vision of the Kingdom on children's rights in Islam, in particular the ongoing discussion on child marriage. “We are gratified by the assurances given by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and senior officials on the prominent place of children's welfare and protection, in particular addressing child marriage,” she said. UNICEF works closely with the Saudi government and other partners to fully realize children's rights through addressing youth and adolescent needs and issues, preventing domestic violence, abuse, and child trafficking, and protecting children who come into contact with the law.
