The Singapore government has submitted updates on the amendments and legislative enhancements to protect the rights of children at the Committee on the Rights of the Child in Geneva today.
These changes which are listed in the second and third Periodic Report on the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) enhance the protection and promotions of children's rights in Singapore.
Updates on key legislative enhancements include changes in the citizenship status of a child born overseas, amendments to the Penal Code to enhance the protection of young persons against sexual exploitation and the minimum age of employment of children.
These legislations have already been in force as early as 2004.
The Periodic Report also includes details on Singapore's continuing efforts to provide quality education and healthcare to children, as well as ensuring timely interventation for children who are at risk or need help.
Public feedback from a consultation forum held in July this year was also included in the Periodic Report.
Over 300 participants from voluntary welfare organisations, professionals working with children, teachers and youth attended the forum and an online public consultation exercise was also conducted through the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports website.
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports, who attended the UNCRC in Geneva said: "The progress that we have made in the area of child development is a testament to the commitment of the Singapore government and, more importantly, the people of Singapore in working to better the lives of all children in Singapore."
