UN CRITICISES DUTCH TREATMENT OF CHILDREN

Criticism of the Netherlands' treatment of children emerged from the United Nations’ Committee on the Rights of the Child in Geneva earlier this month. The Netherlands too often tries young people as adults in court. Children with problems are also placed too readily in institutions.

Minister Andre Rouvoet (youth and family affairs) must report in Geneva over the course of two days as to how the Netherlands complies with the UN Covenant on the Rights of the Child. It is the third time that the Netherlands has been called on to report to the UN on its observance of this treaty. Last time the criticism levelled against the Netherlands was harsher - this year the committee has been milder. The committee will present its recommendations on 30 January. read more (nrc.nl)

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January 26, 2009