I am writing to express my concern for the youth and thus the future of
Cambodia. It's a relief to see organizations such as UNICEF doing large-scale
campaigning encouraging the reporting and persecution of pedophiles. But I have
became disillusioned for it was in Phnom Penh that I attempted to make a report
with no success.
At my hotel I saw a middle-aged man with a girl aged 13
to 15. Following the advice of many printed ads on maps, stickers and posters. I
called the hotline three times. Firstly I rang to make my report. But no-one
spoke English. So I asked for help. I had the bar attendant explain the
situation. She phoned for me. The man in the office told her in Khmer that
no-one speaks English in this office. So she explained my report in Khmer. The
result of my effort was that it would be investigated the next day by which time
it would just be another bad memory for this girl. All the advertisements are
written in English, but it's not possible to help if no-one speaks English.
Sylvia Bartthelmess
Contact PhnomPenh Post for full article
Post Media Co LtdThe Elements Condominium, Level 7
Hun Sen Boulevard
Phum Tuol Roka III
Sangkat Chak Angre Krom, Khan Meanchey
12353 Phnom Penh
Cambodia
Telegram: 092 555 741
Email: [email protected]