A national programme on child protection during 2011-2015 aims to reduce the rate of children in difficulties to below 5.5 percent of all total children nationwide by 2015.

The programme, approved by the Prime Minister on February 22, also sets a target of having 80 percent of children in special difficulties given care and the opportunity to reintegrate into the community as well as minimise the risks for 70 percent of children in special circumstances.

Half of the country’s cities and provinces will build and put into operation child protection services.

The 1.75 trillion VND (84 million USD) programme will give priority to children in special difficulties and those at risk of falling into special circumstances such as abused children and juvenile offenders.

The localities which report the highest numbers of children in special need, areas which are mainly inhabited by ethnic minority people in poor socio-economic conditions will be given special attention./.