Editor's Note: World Children's Day takes place each year on 20 November. The day marks the United Nations General Assembly's adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 as well as the Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) in 1989.
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On November 20th, the world will observe World Children’s Day, a global event led by UNICEF to champion the rights and well-being of children.
This year’s theme, “Listen to the Future,” emphasizes the importance of amplifying children’s voices and involving them in shaping the world they will inherit.
“World Children’s Day is not just a celebration; it’s a call to action,” said Catherine Russell, UNICEF’s Executive Director. "It reminds us of our collective responsibility to listen to children, value their ideas, and empower them to actively participate in decisions that affect their lives.”
The day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, a treaty that has been pivotal in guiding global efforts to secure children’s rights to survival, education, protection, and participation. Listening to children is a fundamental aspect of honoring their rights,” Russell emphasized. “Their voices hold the power to inspire change and create a better, more inclusive future for all.”
UNICEF also highlights the crucial role that parents and caregivers play in fostering an environment where children feel heard and supported. “As a parent or caregiver, you are your child’s first support system,” Russell added. “By creating an environment where children feel safe and heard, you help them develop confidence, critical thinking, and creativity.”
Listening to children’s perspectives has several benefits:
* Boosting Confidence: Children who feel heard develop stronger self-worth and trust in their abilities.
* Encouraging Critical Thinking: Engaging with children’s ideas fosters problem-solving skills and helps them understand the world around them.
* Nurturing Creativity: Listening to children’s visions for the future encourages innovative thinking and imagination.
* Strengthening Bonds: Open communication builds trust and ensures children feel supported in sharing their dreams and concerns.
The theme “Listen to the Future” underscores the importance of children’s right to participate and their unique perspectives on global challenges. UNICEF encourages schools, communities, and institutions to create spaces where children can freely share their hopes and ideas for a better world.
“We must recognize that children are not just the leaders of tomorrow but the voices of today,” Russell stated. “By listening to their dreams, we are fostering a generation of thinkers, doers, and changemakers.”
UNICEF is calling on individuals and organizations worldwide to engage with children and promote their participation in meaningful ways on World Children’s Day. “This day is about more than awareness—it’s about action,” Russell said. “Let’s commit to creating a world where every child feels heard, valued, and empowered to shape the future they envision.”
As November 20 approaches, UNICEF reminds everyone of the significance of listening to children—not just on World Children’s Day, but every day. When we listen to children, we’re investing in a brighter, more equitable future,” Russell concluded.
World Children's Day came and went,
ReplyDeleteMeanwhile every humanitarian law is being bent,
Children's lives seem not worth a cent.
All civil society's pleas dont make a dent.
But we must celebrate this special event,
Cause our collective support has lent
Weight to lofty principles and meant,
A strong message is being sent
To global leaders, "more effort should be spent
On helping children as our foremost intent".