JEDDAH: The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has issued a warning over the exploitation of children for commercial marketing and advertising purposes, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Under the Kingdom’s child protection laws, “authorities are required to prohibit the exploitation of children in commercial marketing or involving them in organized or unorganized crimes, and to prevent them from begging or homelessness,” the ministry said.
In a statement, the ministry highlighted the importance of safeguarding children from the negative impact of exposure to large crowds, such as anxiety, stress, and bullying.
The statement followed the ministry’s recent monitoring of nonprofit organizations using children in Ramadan donation campaigns and marketing activities, which violates the law.
Ramadan is often seen as an ideal time for such commercial activity, with numerous ads exploiting children for emotional manipulation. Viewers are deeply moved when witnessing a child’s tears, deprivation of simple joys, or comparisons between less fortunate and affluent children. These tactics effectively sway viewers, fostering a strong desire to contribute generously.
The ministry said it will pursue legal action against violators. It calls on the public to report suspected cases of child exploitation by calling 19911 or via its mobile application.
