By Bill W. Cooper
Liberia has set December 7, 2023 as the official date for the commemoration of the International Children’s Day at the Ministerial Complex in Congo Town.
The celebration, according to Gender, Children and Social Protection Ministry in collaboration with the Child Protection Network of Liberia (CPN), and the involves activities and initiatives that promote the welfare and rights of children.
The International Children’s Day, which is a United Nations initiative, is celebrated annually on November 20 of each year, as it emphasizes the fundamental rights of children.
The day was established to promote and protect children’s rights, as outlined in the UN Convention on the rights of the child, ranging from rights to education, health, protection, and participation in decisions that affect their lives.
However, this year’s celebration, which marks the 69th anniversary of the International Children’s Day, was suspended by the Liberian government, due to the country’s electoral process, and it is now slated for December 7, 2023.
This ceremony is being observed under a Global theme: “For Every Child, Every Right;” and local Theme: “Investing in Children’s Rights.”
Addressing a news conference over the weekend in Congo Town, Gender Ministry’s Deputy Minister for Children and Social Protection, Lydia Mai Sherman, said, primarily, the day is to celebrate the boundless potential, unwavering determination, and incredible leadership of children.
This, she noted, that it is a day that also calls for reflection, inspiration, and action against all forms of violence against the rights of children, as well as serves as a global reminder of the importance of protecting and promoting the rights of our children.
According to her, the day is an occasion to pledge government commitment to creating an environment where every child across Liberia thrives and reaches his/her fullest potential.
She maintained, “We must recognize that children’s rights are human rights, and by protecting them, we pave the way for a brighter future for all, because their rights encompass a spectrum of fundamental principles: the right to education, the right to healthcare, the right to safety, the right to express themselves, among others.”
“So, as we commemorate the International Children’s Day, we want to re-echo our government’s commitment to fostering an environment where children’s rights and leadership were not mere aspirations but concrete realities.
However, the CDC-led government did not do this alone. We must highlight the importance of community involvement, including support from local and international child protection bodies, particularly the role of the Child Protection Network of Liberia (CPN),” she acknowledged.
Madam Sherman furthered, “For Liberia to reach its full potential, we must recognize that children are not just beneficiaries of our efforts, but active agents of change. Our children have the power to shape our society, and we must provide them with the tools and opportunities they need to do so through collaboration with our partners and CPN.”
“Though our roles as appointed officials conclude, following the electoral shift, we are confident that the incoming government will recognize the vital importance of these initiatives and build upon the progress achieved.
Because the fight to ensure a safer environment for our children transcends political affiliations, and we urge all stakeholders to maintain their commitment to this crucial cause,” she added.
Meanwhile, the outgoing Deputy Gender Minister asserted, “As we celebrate the International Children’s Day, let us reflect on the tremendous potential that lies within our children.
“Let us pledge to invest in their rights, 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.
Our children are our future leaders. We can ensure that they have the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential. Let’s work hand in hand to create a more equitable and inclusive society where children are celebrated and empowered,” she admonished.
