The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection in collaboration with the Child Protection Network of Liberia (CPN) and the Liberia National Children Representative Forum (LNCRF),with support from UNICEF, will on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 commemorate the World Children’s Day.
The World Children’s Day is celebrated annually on November 20th. The Day is a United Nations (UN) initiative that emphasizes the fundamental rights of children. It was established to promote and protect children’s rights as outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. These rights include the right to education, health, protection, and participation in decisions that affect their lives.
This year’s World Children’s Day is being observed under a Global theme: ‘’Listen To The Future.”
Primarily, the day is to celebrate the boundless potential, the unwavering determination, and the incredible leadership of children. It is a day that calls for reflection, inspiration, and action against all forms of violence against the rights of children.
This year’s celebration marks the 70th anniversary of the World Children’s Day.
Speaking on the importance of the day, Gender Minister Gbeme Horace-Kollie said: “We must recognize that children’s rights are human rights, and by protecting them we pave the way for a brighter future for all. Children’s rights encompass a spectrum of fundamental principles: the right to education, the right to healthcare, the right to safety, the right to express themselves, the right to participate in decision-making processes, and so much more.”
“We, as a society, must ensure that these rights are not just words on paper but the very essence of our collective values and actions.”
“As we commemorate the World Children’s Day, we want to reaffirm our government’s commitment to fostering an environment where children’s rights and leadership were not mere aspirations but concrete realities.”
“As we celebrate the World Children’s Day, let us reflect on the tremendous potential that lies within our children. Let us pledge to listen to them, nurture their leadership, and prioritize their well-being. It is not enough to simply commemorate this day; we must take action to create a brighter future for the Children of Liberia.”
Meanwhile, an official indoor program will take place in the theatre at the Ministerial complex following a parade.