All children deserve the opportunity to live free from the threat of violence. This goal couldn’t be more critical for African nations. Africa has the largest youth demographic of any continent, and by 2030, young Africans are expected to make up 42% of the world’s youth.
We must change the record of youth exclusion at the highest levels of decision-making. The first-ever Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children set itself to include youth in its agenda and political declaration. Now, we must ensure that youth voices, expertise, and solutions are heard in keeping governments accountable for their pledges.
As we work towards ending violence against children, we must acknowledge that digital technology is an integral part of children’s everyday lives, with both unprecedented opportunities but also risks of harm.
Our challenges may be greater than ever, but so is our ability to organize and cooperate. At this moment, we must be brave so children can be safe.
We are 100 days away from the first-ever Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children. The time is now to make a difference in the lives of children worldwide.
Join us for this critical discussion of the progress needed to address violence against children, adolescents and sexual and gender-based violence against girls.