November 20 is known as Universal Children’s Day.
This day was declared on December 14, 1954 by the United Nations (UN).
The General Assembly recommended that all countries institute a Universal Children’s Day, to be observed as a day of worldwide fraternity and understanding between children.
It also recommended the day to be observed as a day of activity devoted to promoting the ideals and objectives of the charter and the welfare of children across the world.
The Assembly suggested to governments that the day be observed on the date and in the way which each considers appropriate.
The date November 20, marks the day on which the Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child, in 1959, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, in 1989.
Nearly 25 years ago, the world made a promise to children that they would do everything in their power to protect and promote their rights to survive and thrive, to learn and grow, to make their voices heard and to reach their full potential.
“In spite of the overall gains, there are many children who have fallen even further behind.
“Old challenges have combined with new problems to deprive many children of their rights and the benefits of development.
“To meet these challenges, and to reach those children who are hardest to reach, we need new ways of thinking and new ways of doing – for adults and children.
“There is much to celebrate as we mark the 25th anniversary of the Convention, from declining infant mortality to rising school enrolment, but this historic milestone must also serve as an urgent reminder that much remains to be done.
“Too many children still do not enjoy their full rights on par with their peers,” read a UN statement.
*Source: United Nations
