Castries, Saint Lucia: Prime Minister Philip J Pierre joined the rest of the world to celebrate World Children’s Day on November 20, 2023, under the theme ‘For Every Child, Every Right.’
PM Pierre extended his support to continue investing in the children of his nation by providing them with the resources and opportunities to be productive citizens.
The day is celebrated to recognise the rights, well-being and potential of every child. The significance of this day marks the anniversary of two landmark documents that set down the fundamental rights of children globally such as,
- The Declaration of the Rights of the Child, which was adopted in 1959
- The Convention on the Rights of the Child approved in 1989
Notably, the day serves as an untiring commitment to ensuring that all children should be given an opportunity to thrive and achieve their full potential.
World Children’s Day highlights the achievements of children to uphold their rights and guarantee the creation of a brighter future by collective responsibility.
It is to be added in the remarks of the Saint Lucia National Youth Council that every child is a miracle in their own special way, which makes the world more wonderful.
Ways to Protect Children’s Welfare and Challenges
As there has been progress in upholding children’s rights, some challenges such as abuse, violence, discrimination and exploitation become the constant obstacle in the growth of children.
It is to be noted that these challenges cast a dark shadow over the lives of countless children. Lack of access to essential services, poverty and conflict further worsen these problems.
World Children’s Day serves as a clarion call to mark these obstacles head-on. The day recommits to protecting children from all forms of distress to certify their reach to healthcare and education to foster an environment where every child feels valued, empowered and respected.
Key takeaways from World Children’s Day
- Empower children
- Promote the rights of children
- Invest in children
- Protect children