Casablanca: over 60% of maids aged below 15, study
Morocco, Culture, 11/22/2003

Over 60% of maids working in Casablanca families are aged less than 15 years, and 84% of this rate is illiterate, says a study by the Moroccan observatory of Children rights (ONDE).

The figures were released by the observatory during an encounter held in Casablanca to examine the situation of children in the Casablanca region and set priorities in the field.

ONDE's study also found that 25% of children live with their families in a single room and another 40% live in a two-room lodging.

Fifty percent of children and teens who were asked about their aspirations said they dream of better understanding within the family and a good education. However, only 5% of polled kids and teens said they are interested in associations action.

Meanwhile, parents said they are mainly concerned by problems of drugs and tobacco addiction for males and rape and violence for girls.

The conference also heard a report on children labor presented by Malek Benchekroun, delegate of the international program for the abolition of children labor. The report shows that out of an official number of 600,000 working children, the program has succeeded in helping 3,000 children.

The international program's delegate also noted Morocco's remarkable efforts to end the phenomenon of children working in hazardous jobs, especially after the adoption of the new labor code. The code, to be enforced starting next year, provides for stringent sanctions against adults who employ children in hazardous occupations.

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