Madeleine McCann’s disappearance in Portugal, just before her fourth birthday in May last year, is a vivid reminder of the vulnerability of children.Minors can be exploited for domestic slavery, work in brick kilns, mines, agriculture, fisheries, construction, begging rings and on market stalls, as well as in pornography and prostitution. They may be sold into forced child marriages, for adoption or be drawn into combat as child soldiers. Children have even faced abuse from United Nations peacekeeping troops and those working for non-governmental organisations, who are meant to protect their rights.
