UNICEF and the Ministry of Human Rights lead global day of action for children, by children
Spokesman Report
ISLAMABAD:On World Children’s Day, Pakistan’s most iconic landmarks are turning blue to spotlight children’s rights across Pakistan, led by UNICEF and the Ministry of Human Rights, with children stepping into symbolic roles in provincial assemblies, speaking about their lives, their hopes, and their rights.
World Children’s Day (WCD), celebrated annually on 20 November, marks the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child— the most widely ratified human rights treaty in history — and serves as a global reminder that every day is a day of action for the fulfillment of child rights.
“Every single day, children’s lives are shaped—often limited—by the choices adults make. On World Children’s Day, we raise our voices as young people determined to shape our own future. We imagine a Pakistan where every child is safe, included, learning, and heard. Real, lasting change begins when leaders choose to listen, and when children are empowered to lead,” said Taqwa Ahmed, UNICEF Youth Advocate.
UNICEF, together with the Ministry of Human Rights, is illuminating 18 prominent buildings across the country to draw attention to the importance of investing in every child’s well-being, safety, and future. The ‘Go Blue’ campaign serves as a powerful visual reminder of Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to the rights of children everywhere.
“Today, on World Children’s Day, we celebrate our children, their hopes, their dreams and their potential. Every child in Pakistan deserves the opportunity to grow in a safe, nurturing and empowering environment. The ‘Go Blue’ campaign, illuminating landmarks across the country, serves as a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to uphold children’s rights and well-being. It also symbolizes the nation’s commitment to giving children a voice in shaping their own future and ensuring that their dreams and aspirations are realized. On World Children’s Day, we renew our commitment to ensure every child is heard, protected and supported to reach their full potential, said” Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, Federal Minister for Human Rights.
This year’s WCD commemoration comes at a critical juncture for children in Pakistan, when their rights are increasingly threatened by climate shocks, economic pressures, and persistent social inequities. Over half of all children below age 5 are at risk of poor development outcomes, with 40 per cent of them stunted due to malnutrition, which can impact their growth and brain development). The situation is compounded for school-age children, with poor learning outcomes for school-going children and 25.3 million children out of school, unclear pathways from learning to earning, and nearly one in five girls married before 18.
“Turning the country blue is a unifying moment to remind everyone that every child in Pakistan deserves an opportunity to reach their full potential, safety, dignity and the space to be heard. There are far too many children in Pakistan who are being left behind. Children below age 18 are the future of the country and represent 47 per cent of Pakistan’s vast population and human capital. Concerted attention and accelerated efforts are required nationwide, from the highest authorities to the family household, to value and invest in children as a unifying priority. Children are eager and able to contribute positively to society, bringing ideas and energy that can shape a better future for all – let’s listen to them!” said Pernille Ironside, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan.
