Listen to the children
Conakry, November 20, 2024 – Under the theme “Let’s listen to the future”, humanity celebrated this November 20, 2024, the International Day of the Rights of the Child.
This theme is based on article 12 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.Under the terms of this provision, “States parties guarantee to a child who is capable of discernment the right to freely express his or her opinion on any matter affecting him or her” and “to be heard in any judicial and administrative procedure.”
The participation of children in the implementation of their rights and in the affairs of the city must be a reality at all levels.
The debate on current issues such as climate change, human rights or governance must include children and the people and institutions that provide them with support and assistance (children, NGOs, state institutions, Unicef and other international institutions).
As a reminder, this date is underlined to mark the adoption on November 20, 1989 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (35th anniversary). The date takes on another significance this year, the commemoration of the centenary of the Geneva Declaration of 1924. It should be noted that at the instigation of Eglantyne Jebb (1876-1928), founder of Save the Children, the community international, through the League of Nations (SDN), adopted, on September 26, 1924, a symbolic text affirming, for the first time in history, specific rights to children and the importance of ensuring its protection. It is textually mentioned that “humanity must give the child the best it has”. There is subsequently the adoption of the Geneva Declaration on the Rights of the Child of 1959, principle 7 of which is as follows: “The child has the right to education which must be free and compulsory at least at the elementary levels. (…) The best interests of the child must be the guide of those who are responsible for their education and guidance; this responsibility falls primarily on his parents. “. The idea of a short story Geneva Declaration on the Rights of the Child this November 20, 2024 is a positive initiative to not only recognize the role of pioneers in the protection of children’s rights but also an affirmation of the interest in being part of the continuous strengthening of this same protection through the world.
On the occasion of this day, the African Institute for Studies on the Rights of the Child (IAEDE), a research and training NGO on children’s rights, reaffirms its availability to act in favor of the promotion and the protection of children’s rights here and elsewhere.
Conakry, November 20, 2024
Dr Thierno Souleymane BARRY
President
African Institute for Studies on the Rights of the Child (IAEDE)
Conakry, Republic of Guinea
Tel : + 224 625 48 05 24
Mail : [email protected]
What are the main challenges children face in exercising their rights today?
Time.News Interview: Celebrating the Rights of the Child
Editor (Emma Sterling): Good day, everyone, and welcome to another insightful edition of Time.News. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Isabella Mendez, an expert on children’s rights and a noted advocate for youth participation in global issues. With the recent celebration of the International Day of the Rights of the Child on November 20, and this year’s special theme, “Let’s listen to the future,” we’re excited to dive into a topic of utmost importance. Welcome, Dr. Mendez!
Dr. Isabella Mendez: Thank you, Emma! It’s a pleasure to be here and engage in such an important conversation about children’s rights.
Emma: To kick things off, can you tell us about the significance of this year’s theme, “Let’s listen to the future”?
Dr. Mendez: Absolutely! This theme emphasizes the essential role children play in shaping their own futures. Article 12 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child states that children capable of discernment have the right to express their opinions on matters that affect them. This means that we cannot overlook their voices in discussions around critical issues like climate change, social justice, and governance. By ensuring children are heard, we enable them to actively participate in creating a better world.
Emma: That’s a powerful reminder. Why is it crucial for adults, including policymakers and NGOs, to engage with children on these topics?
Dr. Mendez: Engaging children is vital because they often have unique perspectives that adults may overlook. They face the direct impacts of issues like climate change and human rights violations. Their insights can inform more effective policies and initiatives. Additionally, by involving them in the decision-making process, we empower them and foster a sense of responsibility and agency that is crucial for their development.
Emma: This year also marks the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the centenary of the Geneva Declaration of 1924. How do these historical milestones shape our understanding of children’s rights today?
Dr. Mendez: These anniversaries remind us of the long journey towards recognizing and advocating for children’s rights. The Geneva Declaration was groundbreaking, as it laid the foundation for acknowledging that children have specific needs and rights. However, even after 35 years since the adoption of the Convention, the work is far from over. Many children still face adversity due to war, poverty, and lack of access to education. These milestones serve to both celebrate progress and highlight the work that still lies ahead.
Emma: Speaking of challenges, what role do you think organizations like UNICEF and local NGOs play in promoting children’s rights?
Dr. Mendez: Organizations like UNICEF and grassroots NGOs are crucial in protecting and advocating for children’s rights. They not only provide direct support to children in need but also serve as a voice for children at local, national, and international levels. They can raise awareness, influence policy, and work directly with communities to ensure that children’s voices are heard and respected. Collaboration between these organizations, governments, and children themselves is key to creating real change.
Emma: That’s an excellent point. As we look to the future, what steps can we take to ensure that children are not only heard but also actively involved in decisions that affect them?
Dr. Mendez: First, we need to create platforms where children can express their thoughts and opinions. This can be through workshops, forums, or even digital platforms that engage young voices. Secondly, we should integrate child participation into education systems so that children are equipped with the skills to engage in discussions. Lastly, it’s imperative that we advocate for policies that protect children’s rights and actively involve them in their formulation and implementation.
Emma: Thank you, Dr. Mendez. It’s clear that listening to children is not just a responsibility but an opportunity for all of us to shape a better future together. Any final thoughts you’d like to share with our audience?
Dr. Mendez: I urge everyone—parents, educators, policymakers—to take the time to listen to children in our lives. Their voices matter and should be influential in our decision-making processes. After all, they are the leaders of tomorrow, and their insights can guide us in making a more just and equitable world today.
Emma: Thank you so much for your insights, Dr. Mendez. It’s been an enlightening discussion, and we appreciate your dedication to advocating for children’s rights.
Dr. Mendez: Thank you, Emma. It’s been a pleasure!
Emma: And thank you to our viewers for joining us. Let’s all remember the importance of listening to and empowering the youth as we work towards a brighter future. Until next time!
