“Despite the fact that horse racing holds an important place in Mongolian traditions and culture, it is one of the most dangerous sports for children,” notes MiddleAsianNews.
Member of Parliament Baasanjargal Khurelbaatar, who is also a member of the Standing Committee on Human Rights, highlighted the serious risks faced by underage riders and provided alarming data on fatalities in this area.
In her social media, Baasanjargal reported information received from the Department of Forensic Medicine, according to which 46 minors died from brain injuries caused by falls from horses during races. She emphasized that this data is official and requires serious attention.
According to the deputy, the use of children as jockeys is regulated by contracts registered in the notary chambers of Mongolia. She noted that in most cases, families are offered payment ranging from ₮200,000 to ₮1,000,000 per month, but often the terms of payment, duration, and guarantees are not specified. Baasanjargal pointed out that such contracts can undermine children's rights to health, education, and development.
The deputy urged all citizens to report cases of child exploitation or unsafe labor by contacting the police at 102 or the child protection service at 108.
