World Children’s Day, November 20th, 2025

In a world facing growing challenges, the active participation of children has become more vital than ever. For the Institute, FMSI, and the Secretariat of Solidarity – CMI, November 20th, World Children’s Rights Day, will continue to stand out as a key moment to uplift their voices and reaffirm this commitment.

This date will once again commemorate the adoption by the United Nations General Assembly of two pivotal documents: the Declaration of the Rights of the Child (1959) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989). As the Convention reaches its 36th anniversary, it will serve as a reminder that while most nations have ratified it, the journey toward full recognition and realization of children’s rights will still require sustained efforts, cultural change, and deep collaboration. 

In 2025, FMSI will also celebrate a significant milestone: 18 years of action, advocacy, and commitment to the rights of children and young people. Since its founding in 2007, FMSI has worked tirelessly to amplify the voices of the most vulnerable and promote a culture of human rights within the Marist world and beyond. 

As part of this celebration, FMSI and the Secretariat of Solidarity – CMI will renew their dedication to promoting children’s rights, by organizing a series of events, campaigns, and international collaborations. November 20th will continue to be a key opportunity to highlight the impact of this shared mission.

Over the years, FMSI has marked this day through diverse and meaningful initiatives. In 2025, the event will return with even greater participation. Building on the momentum of the 2024 edition, the initiative will gather more boys and girls from around the world, who will raise their voices and share their visions for a more just and inclusive future. 

The event will take place on November 20th and will be livestreamed globally. Children and young people from countries will join sharing testimonies about their realities, challenges, and dreams.

The program will feature:

• A keynote by  young advocates encouraging youth participation; 

• A panel exploring how faith-based communities can help advance children’s rights; 

• A  participatory moment where children’s voices will lead the conversation with those involved in building a better future for them.

Thanks to increased collaboration with Marist Provinces and with grassroots partners, this event will continue to evolve as a powerful platform for collective reflection and action. 

As FMSI celebrates 18 years of impact, the Institute of the Marist Brothers will look to the future with renewed energy—committed to ensuring that the voices of boys and girls will not only be heard but will inspire the policies, decisions, and communities of tomorrow.