It’s Universal Children’s Day
JOBURG – On this day it is important to teach children about the concept of respect for themselves and others.
Today is Universal Children’s Day and this day was created not only to bring international togetherness and awareness among children worldwide but also to improve children’s welfare.
It is said that the UN General Assembly recommended that all countries introduce an annual event in 1956 known as Universal Children’s Day to encourage fraternity and understanding between children all over the world while promoting the welfare of children.
It was recommended that individual countries choose an appropriate date for this occasion.
Reportedly, on this day in 1959, the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child. And on 20 November 1989, it ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Since 1990, Universal Children’s Day also marks the anniversary of the date the UN General Assembly adopted both the declaration and the convention on children’s rights.
Although this day is not seen as a public holiday, people can celebrate it in various ways such as schools informing children about the concept of rights and how to respect one another.
The United States is the only country that does not observe the day but celebrates National Child’s Day in June.
Countries such as Australia and India observe the day on different dates, celebrating on the fourth Wednesday in October and 14 November respectively.
