‘We Call on You Not to Steal Our Dreams, Our Childhood,’ Young Delegate from Libya Tells General Assembly at High Level Commemoration of Child’s Rights Convention
The General Assembly concluded its high‑level meeting on the occasion of the thirtieth anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, hearing from youth delegates who called for action on protecting their rights, planet and future.
From the climate crisis to chronic poverty, delegates pinpointed challenges and outlined strategies to overcome them, concluding the high‑level meeting that heard from more than 100 Member States over two days. (For details, see Press Release GA/12215.)
Today, a 10‑year‑old youth delegate from Libya said he wanted to speak for “all children whose voices can’t be heard, children who are suffering from lost families and cold nights, wishing to live in peace and calling out for help”.
“We call on you not to steal our dreams, our childhood and our wish for a clean environment,” he said, emphasizing also the importance of quality education, health care, empowerment and freedom from discrimination. Simply put, he said, children seek a safe world in which they can play and have fun and accomplish things.
A youth delegate from Iraq said that Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da’esh) did horrible things to children in her country, separating them from their families and forcing them to join its ranks. “Da’esh forced them to either obey their rules or die,” she said, adding that children across the world are suffering and losing their rights every day.
Older people should understand that the future is in the hands of children, she said, adding that young people should be allowed to dream and become whatever they want. Despite difficult challenges and circumstances, children never give up, she went on to say, adding that they believe they will become something when they grow up and that they will be able to create change.
Many delegations shared snapshots of their efforts. Kazakhstan’s representative agreed that children should grow up in a violence‑free world. Among a range of child‑related initiatives, he said special efforts are focused on assisting children trapped in the ISIL conflict. As part of this programme, the Government has brought home from Syria 31 children who are without parents, and who were previously held in Iraq, he said, highlighting that these boys and girls are now being rehabilitated and reunited with relatives and are attending school.
Ecuador’s delegate, noting that his was the first Latin American country to ratify the Convention on the Rights of the Child, said a large share of its population is under the age of 13. As such, its Constitution singles out children for special protection, he said, stressing that they must never be subject to violence.
Echoing a common theme, the representative of Cabo Verde said the landmark Convention offers a universal legal framework to better implement policies at national, regional and international levels. Cabo Verde’s Constitution enshrines children’s rights, and bold policies are working to combat poverty and sexual violence. He, along with a number of other delegates, endorsed the global pledge of “For every child, every right.”
Panama’s representative said her country has taken many steps to protect and promote these rights, including prioritizing the first 100 days of children’s lives, when they are most vulnerable, and positive intervention can have particularly powerful effects.
South Africa’s delegate recalled that representatives of the children’s parliament developed the first South African Children’s Manifesto of 2019, offering a framework to ensure the Government prioritizes children’s rights in all provinces. Going forward, South Africa will host two events to provide a platform for children to raise issues important to them and to present the Children’s Manifesto to the National Assembly.
The Permanent Observer of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) raised concerns that a lack of access to or systematic disruption of quality education by disaster, conflict and other emergencies can have dramatic repercussions on the life prospects of entire generations. Moreover, its report “Alone and Unsafe”, released in 2018, says thousands of unaccompanied and separated children risk daily sexual and gender‑based violence as they travel along the world’s migratory paths, he said, underscoring the importance of advocating that every unaccompanied or separated child is given the same protection and care that every other child in the world needs and is entitled to.
In other business, the Assembly turned to its agenda item on integrated and coordinated implementation of and follow‑up to the outcomes of the major United Nations conferences and summits in the economic, social and related fields, adopting the draft resolution “Follow‑up to the outcome of the Millennium Summit” (document A/74/L.11). By the terms of the draft, it decided that the main theme for the high‑level political forum on sustainable development for 2020 and the Economic and Social Council for the 2020 session shall be “accelerated action and transformative pathways: realizing the decade of action and delivery for sustainable development”.
Delivering statements during the high‑level meeting were representatives of Ghana, Slovakia, Colombia, Egypt, Costa Rica, Armenia, Luxembourg, Guatemala, Mexico, Zimbabwe, Bahrain, Peru, Honduras, Brazil, Bulgaria, Côte d’Ivoire, Turkey, Sudan, Djibouti, Cuba, Saint Lucia, Russian Federation, Bhutan, Slovenia, Togo, Malaysia, Oman, Gambia, Japan, El Salvador, Yemen, Congo, Andorra, Ireland, India, Jamaica, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Fiji, Romania, Argentina, Philippines, United States, Austria, Nicaragua, Thailand, Portugal, Georgia, Cambodia, Republic of Moldova, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, United Kingdom, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Singapore, Dominican Republic, San Marino, Venezuela, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Saudi Arabia, Eritrea and Kenya, as well as an observer for the Holy See.
The General Assembly will meet again at 10 a.m. on Monday, 25 November, to discuss equitable representation in the Security Council.
General Debate
ISBETH LISBETH QUIEL MURCIA (Panama) said her country maintains its commitment to uphold the Convention on the Rights of the Child and has taken important steps in national legislation to protect children’s rights. As a developing country, Panama is mindful of its challenges and taking care to note its gaps in public policy. The world must meet the needs of children, who are continually affected by inequality and poverty, among other threats. The Government has prioritized the first 100 days of children’s lives, when they are most vulnerable, and positive intervention can have particularly powerful effects, she said.
MIRYAM DJAMILA SENA VIEIRA (Cabo Verde) said the Convention is a landmark instrument that offers a universal legal framework to better implement policies at the national, regional and international levels that promote the rights of the child. Cabo Verde’s Constitution enshrines children’s rights, which are jointly promoted by families and societies. The Government has implemented bold policies to combat poverty and sexual violence and endorses the global pledge of “For every child, every right.”
MARTHA AMA AKYAA POBEE (Ghana) said her country made history by ratifying the Convention in 1990, and thus, understands the obligation that accompanies such an action. Successive Governments have shown firm commitment and taken decisive steps to implement the Convention. Ghana has incorporated the Convention into its Constitution and enacted other relevant laws to demonstrate further commitment. The Convention has become even more urgent today in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Ghana has pursued initiatives and programs based on the Convention’s four core principles, the most recent of which is based on the principle of respect for the views of the child. To commemorate the Convention’s thirtieth anniversary, Ghana launched today the Child Parliament, providing a platform for children to express their views on issues pertaining to their development.
MICHAL MLYNÁR (Slovakia), associating himself with the European Union, called on all States that have not done so to ratify the Convention’s third Optional Protocol, which allows children to submit complaints about violations of their rights under the Convention and its first two Optional Protocols. As a Human Rights Council member, Slovakia is especially focused on promoting children’s rights, both in Geneva and New York. Protecting children should be a goal and target that is included in all three pillars of United Nations work. He stressed the need to invest in children and emphasized the importance of promoting and protecting their human rights. “As a father of two daughters, I would like to express my hope that when the international community commemorates the fortieth or even fiftieth anniversary of the Convention, much more progress would have been made,” he added.
ANDRÉS JOSÉ RUGELES (Colombia) said children have rights and special needs, and all policy should be guided by their best interest. The most effective way to celebrate the Convention’s thirtieth anniversary is to formulate and implement public policy. He welcomed including in the 2030 Agenda a specific target on ending all violence against children, pointing out that Colombia recently launched a national programme focused on ending violence against children and adolescents. It also recently hosted a regional event on children’s rights, during which participants expressed their determination to protect and promote those rights and heard directly from children and adolescents. Building strategies to help people overcome poverty and equipping young people for the job market remains essential. “We are listening to you, the children, and you can count on us,” he emphasized.
MOHAMED FOUAD AHMED (Egypt) said the Convention established the rights of the child, inspiring many Governments to adopt laws that specifically promote and protect their rights. Egypt recently launched a hotline that receives reports and complaints about the abuse of children. Efforts have also been made to spotlight the need to fight bullying, and a national committee has been established to end female genital mutilation. Other guidelines have been created to address the needs of child victims of trafficking and illegal migration, he said, stressing that migrant children have the same rights and access to both public schools and health care as Egyptian nationals. “A healthy environment produces healthy children,” he stressed.
RODRIGO A. CARAZO (Costa Rica) said his country rejoiced 30 years ago at the adoption of the Convention and immediately ratified it. Costa Rica has always recognized the rights of the child, including the right to special protection, participation in decision‑making and a healthy environment. Children and adolescents will “take the reins” in the coming decades, and among the children who attended proceedings on 20 November, there may be the next Secretary‑General. All children deserve access to quality education, comprehensive and universal health care, parental care, and the love of their families — however those families take shape. Stressing that the climate crisis is a growing threat, he said children deserve to inherit a healthy environment.
MHER MARGARYAN (Armenia) said his country’s strategic programme to protect children’s rights aims to improve protection systems, guarantee inclusive and accessible education for children with disabilities and prevent violence against them. He also highlighted the Government’s decision to provide free universal health coverage for everyone younger than 18 years of age and allocate financial resources for this purpose. Armenia also prioritizes the comprehensive reform of childcare systems because every child has the right to live in a family. As such, the Government has launched programmes to prevent children from living in residential care facilities by supporting families and facilitating access to social services, he noted.
CHRISTIAN BRAUN (Luxembourg) said three decades after the Convention’s creation, too many children suffer from displacement and war, while 265 million children do not have access to education. His country has always been stalwart in upholding its commitment to the Convention, and in 2002, formed a committee to implement the instrument. That committee has proposed amendments to draft laws that require the Government’s attention to improve children’s well‑being, among other efforts. Infrastructure was also established to assist minors, in strict compliance with human rights law, he continued, stressing that Luxembourg will continue to support the rights of the child at the international level, earmarking contributions to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
LUIS ANTÓNIO LAM PADILLA (Guatemala) said children have the full rights of all people, including to safety and security. Due to its geography and economic and social conditions, Guatemala is vulnerable to human trafficking. To tackle this problem, it established a mechanism to more accurately issue warnings against human trafficking by using Facebook, offering an opportunity to assist victims. Guatemala is the first country in the region to have done this, using this platform. Noting that the Convention and the Sustainable Development Goals go hand‑in‑hand, he said the Goals establish a path for economic and social sustainability, a challenge that can be met when everyone — including children — pool their efforts to secure a safe, prosperous future. Action to address climate change is particularly needed, because if the problem worsens, there will be no future for children, and hence, no rights to uphold for them.
FLOR DE LIS VASQUEZ MUÑOZ (Mexico) said the Convention helps countries recognize that boys and girls have their own unique rights. “Rather than celebrating, we are here today to recognize the many challenges still ahead of us if we are to fulfil the terms of the Convention,” she said. There are still children who are out of school and lack access to health services. Stressing that conflict, violence and forced displacement all have specific and different effects on boys and girls, she said ending violence against children is a top priority for Mexico. Violence, discrimination and xenophobia are always unacceptable, but especially so when children are targeted because they are migrants. Mexico is working to ensure that migrant children enjoy all human rights. “If we want to ensure that no child is left behind, let us listen to their dreams and concerns,” she asserted, noting that achieving the 2030 Agenda will require full implementation of the Convention.
PETRONELLA NYAGURA (Zimbabwe), stressing that her country prioritizes children’s rights, pointed to several pieces of legislation, including the Children’s Act, the Education Act and the Domestic Violence Act. Zimbabwe’s consistent rating as having one of Africa’s highest literacy rates demonstrates its attention to education. The 2018 Education Amendment Act provides the right to basic State‑funded primary and secondary schooling for every child, including special facilities for children with disabilities. Zimbabwe has adopted a multisectoral response to eliminate all forms of violence and provides practical legal, health and psychosocial assistance to victims. It is now illegal to marry a girl less than 18 years old, while the AIDS levy — a domestic resource mobilization vehicle for HIV/AIDS patients — is now among best practices for other Member States.
JAMAL FARES ALROWAIEI (Bahrain), noting that 30 years ago Governments committed to protecting the rights of the child, said, “This is an opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved and what remains to be done.” Bahrain is committed to protecting children, particularly amid environmental and political global instabilities. “We are convinced of the importance of complete and comprehensive education for children,” he said, highlighting national programmes set up to provide education, health care and nutrition. A new hotline was established so people can report violence against children. Education will determine the future of Bahrain, he said, underscoring the country’s vital partnership with UNICEF.
LUIS UGARELLI (Peru) said the Convention’s near universality testifies to the international commitment to protect children’s rights. “The 2030 Agenda is a chance for us to revisit the issue from a dynamic and cross‑cutting point of view,” he continued. The Convention and its Optional Protocols are vital tools to prepare children to “stand on their own two feet” as they grow into adults. Children and adolescents are rights holders, he stressed, spotlighting the important strides Peru has made in recognizing, protecting and promoting the rights of the child. Peru is regarded internationally for having reduced chronic child undernourishment, prohibited corporal punishment of the child and paid special attention to the rights of girls. The challenges facing the world’s most vulnerable, particularly those living in poverty and with disabilities, must be addressed, he added.
LUIS GALLEGOS CHIRIBOGA (Ecuador) reaffirmed the Convention as the highest standard for the promotion and protection of children’s rights, noting that his country was the first Latin American country to ratify it. Ecuador is a young country, with a large share of its population under the age of 13, and its Constitution singles out children for special protection. Children must never be subject to violence and the Government condemns all forms of violence against them, including as part of armed violence and armed conflict. Ecuador rejects the use of children as human shields and likewise condemns child abuse in the home.
IRMA ALEJANDRINA ROSA SUAZO (Honduras) said the Convention is the most ratified human rights treaty in history, calling its four guiding principles “the cornerstone” for children’s rights around the world. Since Honduras ratified the Convention, it has taken many steps to ensure its implementation. In 2014, it set up a directory for children, adolescents and family, which guides national policies and regulations for their protection and welfare. Honduras works to uphold children’s rights, especially those in vulnerable situations, and in July, approved a comprehensive system to guarantee children’s rights across the country. The system involves the State, municipalities, academia, civil society and international organizations, such as UNICEF. While improving education and health systems remains a huge challenge, Honduras is working to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
RICARDO DE SOUZA MONTEIRO (Brazil) said his country has adopted all international agreements on children’s rights. Its main instrument — the Statute of the Child and Adolescent — is grounded in the Convention. Brazil also endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration, ensuring that schools are havens and that education continues, even during hostilities. The perspective of children must be considered in the development of programmes and policies, especially the views of vulnerable minors living with disabilities or HIV/AIDS, indigenous children, those of African descent or those living without parental care, among others. Children’s rights are a priority in Brazil, as reflected in Government programmes focused on early childhood, children in conflict with the law, sexual abuse and exploitation, teen pregnancy and prevention of self‑harm and suicide, among others.
NIKOLA NENOV (Bulgaria) said Member States must work to promote and ensure children’s well‑being. As such, his delegation worked with Jamaica and Luxembourg to present a voluntary global pledge titled “For every child, every right,” providing States with an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment. He expressed appreciation to the 105 Member States that have endorsed that document. He noted that 2019 marks a decade since the adoption of guidelines for the alternative care of children, adding that Bulgaria has been working extensively on expanding its legal and policy framework aimed at deinstitutionalization, while also promoting the issue abroad through its official development assistance (ODA). Moreover, Bulgaria adopted legislation reinforcing a human rights approach to children, with equal access to quality education and lifelong learning for persons with disabilities.
GBOLIÉ DÉSIRÉ WULFRAN IPO (Côte d’Ivoire), associating himself with the African Group, said his country prioritizes the Convention in its national social policy. The Constitution includes mandatory schooling for children between the ages of 6 and 16, a ban against child labour and prohibition of child mutilation. Côte d’Ivoire has carried out high‑level initiatives to improve children’s well‑being, which have led, among other achievements, to 8,000 minors being removed from plantations and brought back to their families and schools. In addition, the education rate has increased, and there has been a drastic reduction in child mutilation. In 2019, Côte d’Ivoire adopted a new action plan to combat child labour, which has a $132 million budget, he said, expressing thanks to all bilateral and international partners that work with the Government to help children succeed.
XOLISA MFUNDISO MABHONGO (South Africa) recalled that representatives of the children’s parliament developed the first South African Children’s Manifesto of 2019, offering a framework to ensure the Government prioritizes children’s rights in all provinces. South Africa will host two events that provide a platform for children to raise issues important to them and to present the Children’s Manifesto to the National Assembly, he reported. Turning to education, he said access to free education has been expanded, with more than 9 million children attending no‑fee schools, while the provision of digital workbooks and textbooks on tablet devices has increased. Furthermore, South Africa aims to ensure that every 10‑year old will be able to read for meaning within the next decade. Early childhood development is also a top priority, he went on, adding that the Government works to provide skills and opportunities for young people with disabilities.
MUHAMMET AKPAS, youth delegate from Turkey, explaining that he is a country coordinator of the Committee on the Rights of the Child, said Turkey is the only country to have dedicated a special day to its children — the National Sovereignty and Children’s Day — in 1924. The Commission for Children’s Rights in Turkey plays an important role in the Grand National Assembly. Committees have also been established in each province, with the purpose of implementing the Convention and realizing the children’s effective participation in all matters pertaining to them. Explaining that respect for children’s rights is among the basic development criteria of a society, he urged all adults to meet the needs of children — from nutrition to shelter, from love to affection. “We expect all countries around the world to show the same hospitality and compassion for Syrian and all other refugee brothers and sisters as we show in Turkey,” he continued.
Ms. ABUHAJ (Sudan), associating herself with the African Group, said her country has improved children’s access to many basic social services. More children are enrolled in school and vital services are provided for children with disabilities. Youth and children have made a valuable contribution to the positive changes seen in Sudan, she said, stressing that the Government will maintain close collaboration with the United Nations and its agencies. Children must be allowed to have their voices and needs heard. Sudan was among the first signatories of the Convention and will remain committed to promoting child rights.
MOUSSA MOHAMED MOUSSA (Djibouti), associating himself with the African Group, said children around the world continue to be deprived of a decent and safe life. Climate change, hunger, malnutrition and humanitarian crises are all negatively impacting generations of children. “We are deeply concerned about the long‑term effects on them particularly in the Horn of Africa, where children and youth constitute 40 per cent of the population,” he said. The international community must do more to increase opportunities for young people “not just to survive but to thrive”. If elected to the Security Council, Djibouti will tirelessly advocate for children’s rights and for the inclusion of child protection provisions in the maintenance of international peace and security.
ANA SILVIA RODRÍGUEZ ABASCAL (Cuba) said the United States remains the only country that has yet to ratify the Convention, which is the most broadly supported instrument in history. Yet, despite progress made on improving children’s lives, efforts continue to be insufficient and urgent action is needed to address the root causes of a range of problems: 15,000 children die every day from treatable diseases and other preventable causes, 124 million children remain out of school, 1.2 million children live with HIV/AIDS and 420 million live in areas of conflict. Having integrated the Convention into national plans, policies and programmes using an intersectoral approach, Cuba has delivered results, including a low infant mortality rate, 4 per 1,000 births, in 2018. However, the United States commercial blockade against Cuba is the main obstacle for its development, hampering the provision of health, education and social assistance services, which particularly affect children. Still, Cuba shows levels of development comparable to those of developed countries.
COSMOS RICHARDSON (Saint Lucia), associating himself with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), emphasized that providing children with quality education is the foundation for achieving sustainable development. Highlighting progress made in ensuring children’s well‑being, he reported that Saint Lucia provides universal secondary education and has enacted legislation guaranteeing the protection of children. It also has continued to improve the capacity of the Government agency responsible for the care and protection of children. Turning to health care, he said Saint Lucia is engaged in formulating a national health care reform programme that aims to ensure universal coverage.
GUZAL M. KHUSANOVA (Russian Federation) said children must grow up in a family and an atmosphere of peace, stressing that the Convention is an important guide for multilateral international organizations and Member States alike. It enjoys great authority and near universality. Recalling that States have a responsibility to fulfil their treaty obligations, she said the Russian Federation is focused on implementing the Presidential decree titled “The Decade for Childhood”. Protecting children’s rights should be seen through a wide lens. Children continue to experience trafficking and violence, and it is critical to protect them from such abuse. “We will only succeed in this task if we work together,” she added.
DOMA TSHERING (Bhutan) said her country is proud to be one of the early ratifiers of the Convention, without any reservation, on 23 May 1990. Protecting and promoting the rights of children is a high priority, a point reflected in a development approach that focuses on people and investments made through its national development plan. The objective of the twelfth Five‑Year Plan is a “Just, Harmonious and a Sustainable Society through Enhanced Decentralization” and the interests of children are embedded across activities planned for 2018‑2023. Several of the 17 National Key Results Areas ensure that strategies target the needs of children in an evolving society facing contemporary challenges. The Government has worked to increase awareness of child rights and protection issues. For example, various child rights and protection‑related trainings have been carried out for child protection focal points, law enforcement agencies, attorneys and social service providers.
DARJA BAVDAŽ KURET (Slovenia) said that, in 2017, child advocacy became part of the permanent activities of her country’s ombudsman and a council for children and family was established as a monitoring body. Moreover, Slovenia’s primary schools participate in an annual children’s parliament, with 3,000 pupils from more than 200 schools focusing on career questions. Recalling that children from different backgrounds have expressed their views to the Government, she reported that the most pressing issues according to them involve the digital environment and the need to have their voices heard. Slovenia also supports the “Our Rights” project on human rights education implemented in Morocco, Egypt and Kosovo as well as peer mediation projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Moreover, it provides support to UNICEF’s humanitarian aid for children in Yemen as well as activities by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to address sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
KOKOU KPAYEDO (Togo) said that in the last 30 years, there has been a significant decrease in infant mortality and an increase in the number of children enrolled in school. However, more than 149 million children under the age of five suffer from malnutrition. These contrasting realities must drive the world to do better. Togo was among the first countries to ratify the Convention and reaffirms its commitment to the treaty. Upon ratification, Togo undertook an overhaul of its national legal framework to ensure compliance with the treaty, and the Government has signed almost all national, international and African instruments to protect children. Togo adopted its flagship measure — the code of the child — in 2007, having also established an executive office for protecting children and a related hotline.
GLORIA CORINA PETER TIWET (Malaysia), aligning with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), said her country ratified the Convention in 1995 and is committed to upholding its ensuing obligations. Malaysia is continually reviewing its reservations to the Convention, which it has reduced from 12 to 5 articles, with the technical support of UNICEF. She touched on several progressive legislative measures, including amendments to the 2016 Child Act, which abolished the whipping of child offenders, the introduction of the Sexual Offences against Children Act 2017, and the establishment of a Special Court for sexual crimes against children. Malaysia also appreciated recommendations made by the Special Rapporteur on the sale and sexual exploitation of children during her visit to the country in September 2018. She outlined other efforts for the protection of children, including a child interview centre for child victims and witnesses, mobile health teams and immunization programmes, strengthening of adolescent mental health services, a pilot probation services project for child offenders, and the appointing of a Children’s Commissioner under the National Human Rights Commission.
AHMED HAMOOD FAISAL AL BUSAIDI (Oman) said his country ratified the Convention in 1997. It also signed and ratified the Optional Protocols in 2007, establishing measures to ensure implementation. All sectors of society that deal with children are cooperating with UNICEF to establish sustainable development programs to benefit children. In addition, Oman passed a law in 2014 that does everything possible to protect children or to rehabilitate them. There is a commission which receives complaints about abuse or violence, and homes have been opened for children who have been victimized. In September 2019, Oman hosted an International Arab Conference on the prevention of violence against children.
LAMIN JATTA, a child member of the Children National Assembly of the Gambia, reading a declaration passed by the 105 elected members of that Assembly, noted States’ obligation to protect and fulfil the rights of children. Despite progress, there are still challenges that call for collective action by the Government. He requested the Government to commit to efforts to that end, including: making basic and secondary education free, compulsory, qualitative, accessible and available to all children; implementing and enforcing laws that protect children from all forms of abuse, violence, exploitation, hazardous labour and trafficking; and promoting the rights of children with disabilities and ensuring they have access to all services and buildings. He also expressed the Assembly’s commitment to advocate for every child to have every right.
KIMIHIRO ISHIKANE (Japan) outlined various global initiatives to which his country is party, including UNICEF’s “For every child, every right” pledge, and he called on Member States to commit to promoting and protecting children’s rights. Japan is working with civil society to formulate a national action plan to end all violence against children, a process in which children have been invited to express their views and respond to questions concerning abuse, sexual exploitation, bullying and corporal punishment. Their opinions will be considered during the drafting of the action plan. “We believe that children and youth play an important role in further advancing the Sustainable Development Goals,” he added, stressing that every child should grow up in a violence‑free environment.
EGRISELDA ARACELY GONZÁLEZ LÓPEZ (El Salvador) said the international community has made significant strides in implementing the Convention and must now ensure that children are aware of their rights from an early age. At the same time, countries must address new challenges, such as cyberbullying, which many children are exposed to, and the proliferation of hate speech targeting specific groups, which they may be a part of. With 2.2 million children, about one third of its total population, El Salvador is making special efforts to promote comprehensive early development for children and taking other steps. In the wake of a case of sexual violence committed against a 10‑year‑old girl involving a suspect who is a judge in El Salvador, she said a court had ruled that the incident was an “offense” rather than a crime. As a result, the Legislative Assembly modified its criminal code to increase penalties for perpetrators of sexual assault.
ABDULLAH ALI FADHEL AL-SAADI (Yemen) said the coup d’état by the armed Houthi militia has undermined the Government’s ability to overcome many challenges. “Our children are the weakest in our society,” he said, noting that 2 million children suffer from malnutrition and that 4.5 million are not enrolled in primary school. The militia has recruited more than 30,000 children and adolescents into combat, brainwashing them and flouting international law, international human rights law and the rights of the child. “Our children are victims of mines arbitrarily laid by the militia,” he said, underscoring that 800 children have been maimed by these weapons. Yemen is undertaking an action plan in concert with the United Nations. The Government signed the Safe Schools initiative and is “doing everything” to rehabilitate children affected by the conflict. Regarding child labour, Yemen has adopted a plan to provide educational opportunities to prepare youth for the working world.
RAYMOND SERGE BALÉ (Congo) expressed solidarity with all the children whose childhood was stolen. “We have the opportunity to examine progress accomplished in the promotion and protection of children’s rights,” he continued. The rights of children are essential to Congo’s development, peace and security. The Government is striving to improve their access to critical social services. He expressed concern that 1,000 children die every day from easily preventable illnesses due to inadequate sanitation, pledging that Congo will work with the international community to ensure the rights of all children.
ELISENDA VIVES BALMAÑA (Andorra), associating herself with the European Union, said children should be recognized as stakeholders and active participants in the Convention’s implementation. Andorra’s national institutions have created space for student participation, she said, noting that Government sessions involving them will soon take place. Efforts and responsibility must be shouldered together “so that we can protect children from abuse”. Andorra remains engaged with the United Nations, particularly UNICEF, which has been instrumental in helping Member States understand their responsibility to children. She expressed concern that the vital developmental right to recreation has been taken away from many children by conflict and violence.
BRIAN PATRICK FLYNN (Ireland), noting his country’s leadership role in including children and young people in Government decision‑making, said a recently convened youth assembly on climate action in Parliament will lead the Youth Parliament to vote on a related measure in the coming days. Ireland is also establishing a dedicated national youth council for climate action and climate justice, he said, adding that the consequences of the crisis threatens to endanger the most fundamental rights envisaged by the Convention, including the right to a healthy environment. Raising other concerns, he said digital technologies are posing new risks to the rights of children that were not foreseen in 1989. While the implementation of the Convention remains fundamental, the world must ensure that the international framework for protecting and promoting their rights continues to evolve to keep pace with a constantly changing world.
PAULOMI TRIPATHI (India) said childhood is a special time when boys and girls must be nurtured so they can flourish with dignity. However, more than half of the world’s poorest persons are children. They also are disproportionately affected by terrorism and armed conflicts and are trafficked for sexual exploitation, forced labour or for recruitment by armed groups. Moreover, exposure to the digital environment is reshaping childhood by creating both opportunities and unprecedented risks, including exposure that can impact cognition and their physical and mental health. “We need to protect children from exposure to inappropriate content and bullying and preserve their privacy in cyberspace,” she said. As home to 472 million children, India remains committed to every child’s right to a life of dignity and safety.
E. COURTENAY RATTRAY (Jamaica), citing national efforts, said his country amended its Children (Guardianship and Custody) Act to implement several Convention provisions and had, in 2017, joined the Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. In 2018, amendments to the Child Care and Protection Act doubled prison time to 20 years for individuals who participated in child trafficking. Meanwhile, Jamaica enacted the Child Diversion Act to help children who come into conflict with the law, he said, adding that: “This will assist in treating these individuals with dignity and fairness, while imparting positive values.”
RUDOLPH MICHAEL TEN-POW (Guyana) said the Convention’s near‑universal ratification reflects the aspirations of the international community for the well‑being of children and his country’s strong commitment to protect children from sexual exploitation, violence and other forms of abuse. Children have a right to be heard and fairly treated in all circumstances. For its part, Guyana has passed numerous child‑related laws, including one establishing a child protection agency, and established a national alternative care policy focusing on their deinstitutionalization. Still, challenges remain in Guyana, with too many cases of child abuse and neglect at a time when agencies are underresourced and children face new threats like cyberbullying.
DEVITA ABRAHAM (Trinidad and Tobago), associating herself with CARICOM, said the Convention guides national efforts, and several articles have been incorporated into domestic legislation. A draft national child policy provides an overall framework for the care, protection and development of children and offers long-term guidance to support suitable legislation, interventions and related infrastructure. “Children’s status and well-being speak volumes about the values and quality of life within any society,” she said. Trinidad and Tobago has taken steps to address pressing concerns, including the launch of abuse awareness initiatives and renewing its commitment to goals to ensure a future where no child is left behind.
AGNES ALI (Fiji) said that since ratifying the Convention, her country has enacted several child protection laws and launched child-sensitive social protection programmes granting access to education through the provision of free education, textbooks and bus fares. However, millions of children worldwide suffer violations of their rights, including being denied access to adequate health care or education. Emerging threats are another concern, with children in the Pacific region at risk of the effects of the climate crisis, which threaten their health, security and development. As such, Fiji’s Prime Minister has pledged full support for the Convention’s guiding principles and guaranteed the country’s determination to implement child-centred policies and enhance investments for the advancement of children’s rights.
ION JINGA (Romania), associating himself with the European Union, cited a range of national efforts stemming from the Convention. For instance, Romania advanced in the process of deinstitutionalizing children, and by 2020 all remaining classic-type residential institutions will be closed and replaced with a community-based care model. Other areas of action include providing education for all children in a safe environment and addressing bullying. Supporting the empowerment of children in decision-making processes, Romania had, during its presidency of the Council of the European Union, issued the Bucharest Children’s Declaration, after broad consultations involving children, experts and representatives of the bloc.
MARTÍN GARCÍA MORITÁN (Argentina) said the Convention’s principles have been enshrined in the Constitution, with free, compulsory schools, including comprehensive sexual education. A turning point for Argentina and the region was passing a law to emancipate children without parental care, which was the first of its kind in Latin America. However, challenges persist, and there is a gap between ideas and their full realization. Any sustainable development strategy must be based on an approach that incorporates their rights into decision‑making processes and includes children in all affairs concerning them. This focus is the guiding light of public, private and civic intervention in their lives.
KIRA CHRISTIANNE DANGANAN AZUCENA (Philippines) outlined national efforts, including a range of laws and measures that protect and promote the rights and welfare of children, including one regarding armed conflict situations. In the Philippines, children have the right to free and compulsory elementary education and access to public colleges and universities, including technical vocational schools run by the Government. Children also have the right to participate in the affairs of the State, with youth assemblies established in all 42,000 barangays or villages nationwide, giving those as young as 15 years old the right to vote and to represent themselves in the Youth Council.
ELISABETH MILLARD (United States) said her country prioritizes children in its global partnerships, including the Department of State’s bilateral relationships that enable the prosecution of child traffickers. Citing a range of efforts, she noted that the Department of Labour has funded 49 projects in 43 countries to combat exploitative labour practices, having rescued nearly 2 million boys and girls since 1995, and the United States Agency for International Development funds efforts aimed at reducing maternal deaths through targeted health and nutrition programmes. United States foreign assistance also aims to assist children living outside family care, such as those living in institutions or on the street. Condemning early and forced marriage and genital mutilation, she said the United States provides resources to prevent these acts in countries where interventions are needed most.
JOCHEN HANS-JOACHIM ALMOSLECHNER (Austria), pointing out that many of the Sustainable Development Goals’ targets are directly related to the Convention, warned that failing to implement these objectives would mean the violation of human rights, shortcomings in development and lost opportunities for children. Regarding corporal punishment, he noted that 53 countries have banned all such practices regarding children. For its part, Austria is working towards establishing a violence-free zone in Europe, where children can grow up safe from violent punishment.
JAIME HERMIDA CASTILLO (Nicaragua) said protecting the rights of boys, girls and adolescents remains a priority for his country, which has achieved progress over the last 12 years. Citing several examples, he said substantive gains have been made in restoring rights — including child protection — denied to the Nicaraguan people during years of neoliberal Governments and policy. In addition, UNICEF confirmed that Nicaragua has met several indicators of the Sustainable Development Goals ahead of 2030. The Government has also taken action to protect every child from the time of conception. However, there are still millions of boys and girls in the world who live in poverty, are victims of conflict, and suffer from economic sanctions imposed on developing countries by developed countries.
SUPARK PRONGTHURA (Thailand), associating himself with ASEAN, highlighted that his Government has successfully eliminated mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis. In addition, a comprehensive universal health care coverage benefit package covers essential services for mothers and children, including in the key periods of childhood development. Citing other achievements, he pointed to a new national strategy to promote and protect children and youth in the use of online media to address new challenges related to online abuse and bullying. At regional and global levels, Thailand continues to advocate for a range of children’s rights, including the prevention of violence against them within the justice system.
FRANCISCO DUARTE LOPES (Portugal), aligning himself with the European Union, said that developing a culture of civic intervention and participation included the creation of the National Council of Children and Young People, contributing to equal opportunities that will lead to the fulfilment of their potential. Citing further efforts, he said a Ministry of Health programme promotes the rights of children and young people through abuse prevention, early detection of risk factors and the provision of care. Particular attention must be paid to all children, especially those in more vulnerable situations, he said, commending the Assembly’s Third Committee (Social, Cultural and Humanitarian) for its recent, consensual adoption of resolutions on the rights of the child and on policies and programmes involving youth.
KAHA IMNADZE (Georgia), associating himself with the European Union, cited national achievements, noting that his country adopted in 2018 the Code on the Rights of the Child, which created a legal basis for their protection, and that it pledges to undertake measures to increase the access of children with disabilities to inclusive education. Despite much progress, the Russian Federation’s occupation of two Georgian regions prevents his country from sharing the human rights protection framework with children remaining on the other side of the illegally erected barbwire fences. “They continue to suffer from grave violations of their fundamental rights and freedoms, including but not limited to the freedom of movement, right to education and access to medical care,” he said, adding that the absence of international monitoring mechanisms further deteriorates the situation on the ground.
SOVANN KE (Cambodia), associating himself with ASEAN, said that, with the growth of the economy, his country has made greater investments in children’s education, health care and social protection. The Government provides free schooling for children from grades 1 to 12, with improved curriculum and facilities, and affordable access to public and private universities. Highlighting the importance of involving young people in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, he said their inclusion will promote social cohesion and reinforce their rights and the rule of law. Children should also be encouraged to engage in policy‑making processes.
VICTOR MORARU (Republic of Moldova), associating himself with the European Union, cited a range of new challenges impacting children’s rights, such as climate change, unhealthy environments, migration, digital insecurity and the changing nature of armed conflict. Intergenerational justice compels adults today to protect the rights enshrined in the Convention, especially as children will be on the receiving end of climate change consequences. Noting that the Republic of Moldova has been a party to the instrument since 1993, he outlined its Strategy for Child Protection (2014‑2020), a related implementation plan and its Development Strategy 2030, all of which are guided by the Sustainable Development Goals. The country is also a cosponsor of a draft resolution focused on children without parental care, which it tabled in the Third Committee during its current session.
AKSOLTAN ATAEVA (Turkmenistan) said her country’s goals include securing a future defined by a healthy, educated generation. National laws have been brought into line with the Convention, which prioritizes providing children with access to education, health, and public life. In 2018, Turkmenistan worked jointly with UNICEF to develop a plan of action that defines social and State policies on children, including preventive measures on child labour and ensuring their rights and well‑being. Citing other gains, she said that the number of students in vocational training institutions increased by a significant percentage in 2018, compared with 2015, and that in higher education, student enrolment increased by more than 23 per cent. Efforts are also under way to provide education to orphans.
YASHAR T. ALIYEV (Azerbaijan), noting that he is the father of three children, said parents, caregivers, family members and communities have a duty to give every girl and boy a head start in life through proper protection, support, quality education and health care. In conflict‑stricken and fragile regions, children are often disproportionately affected by experiences that scar their minds and bodies. He expressed particular concern about the targeting of children in armed conflict, strongly condemning all such violations against them. Azerbaijan was among the first countries in the region to ratify the Convention, adding that child refugees, internally displaced children and those with special needs are entitled to free education at any State school or university as well as free medical care.
TASNEEM FIRAS HASSAN, youth delegate from Iraq, said children are suffering and losing their rights every day. In her country, Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da’esh) did horrible things to children, separating them from their families and forcing them to join its ranks. “Da’esh forced them to either obey their rules or die,” she said. In other countries, children suffer from discrimination, making them feel hurt and alone. Regardless of their differences, all children have feelings and deserve to be treated with respect, she said, adding: “I want children to feel that they do not have to change their personality or identity.” Despite difficult challenges and circumstances, children never give up. Instead, they believe they will become something when they grow up and that they will be able to create change. They will have families that are free of want and suffering. Older people should understand that the future is in the hands of children, who should be allowed to dream and become whatever they want.
JAMES ROSCOE (United Kingdom) said the Convention is a powerful instrument that is driving positive change for children around the world, but its implementation is inconsistent. Ratification, while crucial, is only a first step that must be followed by concrete and sustained action to deliver real progress. The international community must also be vigilant of emerging twenty‑first century threats to children’s enjoyment of their rights, such as climate change. Moreover, children remain disproportionately affected by crisis and conflict, with far‑reaching consequences. Protracted conflicts and increasingly urbanized warfare put children at even greater risks. For its part, the United Kingdom supports the global pledge “For every child, every right” and plays a key role in ending the recruitment of children by armed groups. It also endorses the Safe Schools Declaration and the Vancouver Principles on Peacekeeping and the Prevention of the Recruitment and Use of Child Soldiers, and its “Leave No Girl Behind” education campaign. Through online training and impact assessments, the Government is increasingly integrating children’s rights into its decision‑making and programming, he said.
KAIRAT UMAROV (Kazakhstan) said children must grow up in a world free of violence. Citing national achievements, Kazakhstan signed the Convention in 1994, and since then, has worked closely with UNICEF. It has also provided $1.6 million for psychological assistance to children in need. Today, Kazakhstan has 5.6 million children, and the country understands that the national future depends on their successful development. It has made special efforts to assist children trapped in the ISIL conflict and has brought home from Syria 31 children who are without parents, and who were previously held in Iraq. These children are rehabilitated, reunited with relatives and attending schools.
TAYE ATSKESELASSIE AMDE (Ethiopia) said his country’s Constitution protects children against exploitative practices, corporal punishment and cruel or inhumane treatment in schools and other institutions. Its 2017 Comprehensive National Child Policy aims to create a safe and conducive environment for the upbringing of children, and a subsequent national action plan lays out strategies to protect them from labour exploitation and sexual violence. Ethiopia also adheres to the provisions of the Convention and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and has mainstreamed the Sustainable Development Goals into its plans and policies. In addition, he said, it has adopted the National Plan of Action for Children (2015‑2020) with tremendous results registered to date.
NNAMDI OKECHUKWU NZE (Nigeria) said his country domesticated the Convention through its Child Rights Act, demonstrating an unquestionable commitment to protecting the rights of every child and providing the necessary conditions and opportunities for their holistic development and flourishing. Though conflicts threaten the education of children, Nigeria is determined to ensure that children stay in school by protecting classrooms from attack and by providing a safe and conducive environment for learning. Nigeria also endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration, rejecting all forms of military occupation of schools, no matter the circumstance. Going forward, he called on the United Nations to legally define what is already recognized as the abuse and sexual exploitation of children, both online and offline.
JO-PHIE TANG (Singapore), aligning herself with ASEAN, said her country has moved to align its national laws and policies with the Convention, making legislative amendments to the Women’s Charter and the Children and Young Persons Act to enhance protection and help with the rehabilitation of children in conflict with the law. Singapore has also enacted the Family Justice Act to help resolve family disputes and protect children while also continuing to collect and use data to monitor their well‑being and review existing policies. Internationally, it provides technical assistance through the Singapore Cooperation Programme to promote child development. Singapore will keep strengthening its approach to safeguard children’s rights and development while monitoring emerging challenges, such as the danger created by the digital environment and the issue of mental health.
FRANCISCO ANTONIO CORTORREAL (Dominican Republic) outlined national efforts, including addressing the issue of birth registration, as 12 per cent of children under five years of age in the country’s poorest families are not officially registered at birth. Violence against children and early marriage remain major concerns, he said, pointing out that almost 40 per cent of young women wed before 18 and 23 per cent marry before 15. Gains have been made, however, with a marked increase in the number of boys, girls and adolescents covered by their parents’ health insurance. The Dominican Republic will continue to focus on realizing the Sustainable Development Goals and ensuring the no child is left behind.
DAMIANO BELEFFI (San Marino) said life for millions of children has improved substantially since the Convention’s adoption, but significant challenges remain in many parts of the world. Children in vulnerable situations, those living with disabilities, and girls suffer from violence, discrimination, trafficking and abuse. Many have no access to education or basic services, suffer from the scourge of war and risk being recruited as child combatants. “For all these children, childhood is just a blurry dream,” he added, also emphasizing: “We need to listen to the voices of these children.” They should be nurtured, cared for and heard, but words are not enough. This is a moment for action to ensure that no child is left behind.
JOAQUÍN ALBERTO PÉREZ AYESTARÁN (Venezuela) said this week the Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) reaffirmed its commitment to care for children. “Only joint action through coordinated international efforts will make it truly possible to realize the rights of all children,” he emphasized. Children are vulnerable and deserve to have their own system of protection. Policies of the United States have been criminal and inhumane and are fully oriented to push for regime change in Venezuela. The most vulnerable part of Venezuela’s population — children — suffer most from coercive unilateral measures. Washington, D.C., rejoices over the suffering caused, he said, asking: “What right does the United States Government have to impose its authority on sovereign States?” One cannot claim to promote human rights while subjecting an entire people to suffering, he asserted.
BAASANKHUU PUREV (Mongolia) highlighted measures undertaken since 2016, including new protection and revised legislation and Parliament’s adoption of a law for youth development, which also established a related fund. In addition, the Cabinet approved a four‑year programme on child development and protection, and the Government launched a national campaign to protect children from cybercrimes. Turning to challenges facing Ulaanbaatar, he outlined policies and programmes aimed at addressing the shortage of kindergartens and air pollution, which in 2018 was 20 times over safe limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO). A national action plan aims at decreasing air pollutants by 80 per cent by 2025 and is also prohibiting the use of unprocessed coal everywhere, except in the city’s thermal power plants.
AIBEK MOLDOGAZIEV (Kyrgyzstan) said his country has achieved positive child protection indicators, being one of 62 nations to reach the Sustainable Development Goal of reducing child mortality by more than two thirds. In addition, pre‑school education covers 64 per cent of children, and the Constitution provides special guarantees for the protection of families and children. All branches of the Government, local authorities and public organizations are involved in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, with a focus on providing a happy family environment, he said, adding that strengthening the family as an institution should be a priority.
DAVID TSHISHIKU TSHIBANGU (Democratic Republic of the Congo), associating himself with the African Group, said that by ratifying the Convention in 1990, his country placed the highest interest of the child at the heart of its Constitution. It ensures that in all decisions involving children, the highest interest of the child is a primordial consideration. However, it must be admitted that some of the promises to children in his country have not been kept. The Government reaffirms its belief in the deep need for children to enjoy safe and secure environments. It is committed to taking the necessary measures to ensure the Convention’s provisions become a reality for all children.
MOHAMMED ESSAM M. KHASHAAN (Saudi Arabia) said the Convention guarantees the rights of all children, stressing that children should enjoy their full rights without restrictions, and that all children in the country should enjoy the same rights. A system was established to combat cybercrime, as was a family safety programme to identify domestic abuse and identify relevant authorities, which includes a national registry on the mistreatment of children in the medical sector. In 2019, youth marriage was prohibited for children below the age of 15, and adolescents between 15 and 18 must be certified by parents and medical authorities before being married. Saudi Arabia is also committed to protecting children in armed conflict, he said, stressing that children in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, and Yemen, are being mistreated. Saudi Arabia will continue pursuing collaboration with the United Nations and other international bodies to ensure children’s rights.
SOPHIA TESFAMARIAM YOHANNES (Eritrea), associating herself with the African Group, said that one of the country’s world heritage sites, the Fiat Tagliero, was glowing blue in honour of World Children’s Day. Eritrea’s commitment to safeguarding children’s rights is enshrined in its national charter. To expedite the Convention’s implementation, the Government established a national interministerial committee, while a national action plan for children is incorporated in the strategic plans for every ministry. Significant investments have been made in the areas of health, education and child protection, she said. Eritrea has seen a marked reduction in female genital mutilation, from 95 per cent to below 10 per cent, but there is still a need to improve and build the physical and social infrastructure necessary to sustain these achievements.
MAHMOUD ELJAFARI, youth delegate from Libya, expressed the intention of speaking up for “all children whose voices can’t be heard, children who are suffering from lost families and cold nights, wishing to live in peace and calling out for help”. All children have the right to belong to a family, he said, calling it the natural environment for growth, well-being, love, protection, care and assistance. Children seek a safe world in which they can play and have fun and accomplish things. “We call on you not to steal our dreams, our childhood and our wish for a clean environment,” he said, emphasizing also the importance of quality education, health care, empowerment and freedom from discrimination.
SALIM MOHAMMED SALIM (Kenya) said his country has ratified the relevant Optional Protocols on children’s rights, and endorsed both the Safe Schools Declaration and the Global Pledge of “For every child, every right”. At the regional level, Kenya signed the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child — commitments that testify to his country’s vow to meet international and regional obligations on ensuring the rights of children. Kenya continues to implement measures that create an environment that promotes the ease of access and enjoyment of all rights by children, as well as measures that progressively increase budgetary allocations to child services. Kenya has achieved gender parity in primary education and 100 per cent transition from primary to secondary education, and continues to promote inclusive education to address the specific needs of children with disabilities.
FREDRIK HANSEN, observer for the Holy See, which ratified the Convention in 1990, welcomed that the celebration of this instrument did not “shy away from the reality” that, despite its near-universal ratification, “many children are not protected or respected around the world”. For its part, the Holy See will host a seminar at the Vatican to promote and protect the dignity of every child in the digital world, and hold a panel discussion in Geneva on the right of children to education. The Convention’s purpose is to protect the inherent dignity of every child, beginning with the right to life, which should be respected and protected by parents, society and the State, he stressed. He added that it is also a legally binding instrument that sets out State obligations in “carefully negotiated language”, as modified by each State’s reservations. He emphasized that children’s rights should be considered “within the context of the family and never in contraposition with the family”, and that States must be vigilant to new forms of violence and abuse that children are exposed to, including through digital technologies.
RICHARD BLEWITT, Permanent Observer for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), said lack of access to or systematic disruption of quality education by disaster, conflict and other emergencies can have dramatic repercussions on the life prospects of entire generations. The IFRC Strategic Framework on Education, to be adopted at its General Assembly in Geneva next month, seeks to address education-related humanitarian needs and enhance access to education in armed conflict, disaster and other emergency situations. Its report “Alone and Unsafe”, released in 2018, says thousands of unaccompanied and separated children risk daily sexual and gender-based violence as they travel along the world’s migratory paths. They are at high risk for being forced into “survival sex”, which is why it is important to continue advocating that every unaccompanied or separated child is given the same protection and care that every other child in the world needs and is entitled to.