Prevention of the Exploitation of Children – International Standards and State in Serbia

Abstract

Exploitation of children is a complexed global phenomenon, with roots in poverty, but also in organized crime activities. After World War I international community designated children as vulnerable group, which must receive additional consideration and legal protection. International Labour Organization, followed by United Nations after World War II, have become bearers of actions aiming to supress exploitation of children in various ways. Paper studies these kinds of efforts of international organizations and international NGOs, as well as identifes most important international standards acheved in attempt of eradicate children and minors abuse and exploitation. Also, there is a brief analysis of normative and real situation with children in Serbia, and possible directions in which further development of international instruments (and their implementation at the national level) may go in near future. These problems are not in the focus of legislative and other institutions in Serbia, although various forms of children abuse are present; on the other hand, there are no coordinated actions to prevent and adequatly punish such criminal acts.