Our children deserve better from society

One of the most alarming figures was that of teenage pregnancy, which has been consistently rising over the past few years. This is obviously an increasing problem among Thai teenagers, as the number of mothers aged below 18 years increased by 80,000 last year. More than 46 per cent of women who had an abortion were under the age of 25.

The figures also showed on average that two children under the age of 15 were raped per day.

Many youngsters fail to get fair access to good education, and it is a sad fact that communities and authorities also fail to provide children with enough facilities such as playgrounds and recreation centres. In addition, television and other media don't provide quality programmes to help develop children's minds. This is not to mention the even greater problem of child labourers and those who are homeless and left to wander the streets.

The youngsters called on the government and adults to respect their rights and to help equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to survive in these turbulent economic times.

One long overdue requirement is that schools should have an advisory clinic for teenagers about sexuality and pregnancy. Young people should also have access to counselling for sexual and emotional problems.

These calls from teenagers should be taken seriously. If the rights of children and young people are not guaranteed and protected, we will see social problems spiralling out of control. Youngsters need to be given due care and protection, as well as the opportunity to fulfil their full potential.