Safeguarding our most vulnerable
The one day of the year set aside to celebrate our youngest and most vulnerable will be celebrated on Monday November 20.
World Children’s Day, also known as Universal Children’s Day, is a commemorative date celebrated annually in honour of children. In 1925, International Children’s Day was first proclaimed in Geneva during the World Conference on Child Welfare. The United Nations adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959.
According to the UNICEF website, ‘On World Children’s Day we’re making space for children and young people to raise their voices on the issues that matter to them. By prioritising children’s rights and participation, we can help to build a better future for all.’
As a major focus, the observance seeks to raise awareness about the unique challenges children face, including poverty, violence, lack of access to healthcare, and the necessity of providing a nurturing environment conducive to their well-being and development.
According to UNICEF, 22,000 children die every day around the globe as a result of poverty, often due to preventable diseases such as diarrhea and pneumonia.
In 2023, a staggering 78 million children worldwide did not attend school due to conflict, climate disasters, and displacement. This figure includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who make up around 6% of the total children’s population in Australia.
While many Australian children enjoy a high standard of living, there remains a considerable gap between the rich and the poor. Children growing up in low-income households are more likely to experience poor health, lower educational attainment, and decreased opportunities in the future.
In September 2012, the UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon led the push for the education of children, including the implementation of policies to promote peace, respect, and environmental concern.
World Children’s Day is not only a day to celebrate children for who they are, but to bring awareness to children that have experienced violence in forms of abuse, exploitation, and discrimination.
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