World Children’s Rights Day, November 20th, 2024 – A Milestone for the Rights of Boys and Girls
For the Institute, FMSI, and the Secretariat of Solidarity – CMI, few moments in the year are as significant as November 20th, World Children’s Rights Day.
This date marks the anniversary of the adoption by the United Nations General Assembly of two fundamental documents: the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 and the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989. Although nearly all nations have ratified this Convention, 35 years are but a brief moment in history, and much remains to be done to change mindsets and ensure that all boys and girls are recognized as rights holders.
Every year, FMSI and the Secretariat of Solidarity – CMI work to make this day an opportunity to celebrate the rights of boys and girls, organizing events that reflect their commitment to communities, collaborating with other organizations and stakeholders to amplify their impact.
From its foundation, from 2007 to 2015, FMSI celebrated this day by publishing thematic booklets collecting reflections and personal stories from children, project workers, and community members. These booklets covered crucial topics such as the Right to Participation, Non-Discrimination, Disability, and the Rights of Migrant Boys and Girls, including resources to stimulate discussions in schools and communities. In 2009, FMSI presented the photo exhibition “New World”, gathering reflections from children and young people worldwide on their dreams for the future. Over the years, FMSI continued its awareness-raising efforts with initiatives such as virtual postcards in 2014 and 2015, sent as a countdown to November 20, sharing powerful testimonies, statistics, and images in favor of children’s rights. A special 2016 booklet highlighted Marist projects supporting migrant and refugee children, and in 2017, on the occasion of FMSI’s 10th anniversary, the event “Children on the Move” was held. This meeting saw the participation of major organizations such as Focsiv, the Italian Red Cross, Terre des Hommes, JRS, and Save the Children to discuss migration and forced displacement themes.
Voices of Tomorrow: An Event to Reflect on the Future of Children’s Rights
In 2024, on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, FMSI and the Secretariat of Solidarity – CMI organized the event “Voices of Tomorrow”, a unique opportunity to listen to the voices of boys and girls from different parts of the world and reflect on the future of their rights.
This event took place on November 20th, with a live-stream on YouTube and in-person participation at the Champagnat Hall in the Marist Brothers’ General House in Rome. The day included contributions from numerous experts and activists, such as Markus Heinze, former Executive Director of Franciscan International, who celebrated the 35 years of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
A significant moment of the event was the “Voices of Tomorrow” video, featuring the participation of children from Costa Rica, Madagascar, Portugal, and Kenya, who shared their experiences, hopes, and visions for a better future.
The event also featured testimonies on how boys and girls can actively use the United Nations’ human rights mechanisms, thanks to the collaboration of the Star of The Sea Province.
Awards and Recognitions
One of the event’s highlights was the presentation of awards to individuals who have distinguished themselves in defending children’s rights. The “A Better World for Children” Award was presented to Alessandra Aula, Secretary General of the Bureau International Catholique de l’Enfance (BICE), while the Margot També Award was given to Layla Antaki for her commitment to the Blue Marists project in Aleppo.
A Future of Sustainability and Global Commitment
The event also provided the opportunity to present the UPR Map of the Institute, an important monitoring tool documenting the commitments and actions of the Marist Institute within the framework of the Universal Periodic Reviews on human rights. Br. Ángel Diego García Otaola, Director of the Secretariat of Solidarity – CMI, illustrated the Institute’s Position, a strategy that continues to guide the Marist Brothers’ actions worldwide.
The Journey Continues for the Dignity and Safety of Boys and Girls
Although significant progress has been made, the path to ensuring full respect and protection of the rights of every boy and girl is still long. FMSI invites everyone to join this journey, contributing ideas and reflections to create a world where every boy and girl can live in dignity and safety. This event was an extraordinary opportunity to celebrate achievements but also to renew the collective commitment to a more just and safe future for boys and girls worldwide.
