On the 20th of November each year, people across the globe come together to celebrate World Children's Day, a special occasion dedicated to honoring the potential and rights of children. With a steadfast focus on the well-being of children, this year we orchestrated a series of activities and events to mark this significant day. Our goal was to foster an atmosphere of joy, learning, and empowerment for the children who represent the future pillars of our society. Let's delve into the array of activities we curated for this memorable day.

Launch of the report "Changes we want to see"

On the occasion of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, children once again showcase their ability, much like adults, to recognize and assert their right to demand accountability from those entrusted with responsibilities. The report sheds light on the commitments made by decision-makers, with a primary focus on two crucial domains influencing children's rights: child protection and climate sustainability/environmental protection.

In the realm of child protection, decision-makers have pledged to bolster measures that ensure the safety, well-being, and development of children. This includes initiatives to combat child abuse, exploitation, and neglect, as well as the promotion of inclusive and accessible education, healthcare, and social support systems.

In parallel, the commitment to climate sustainability and environmental protection underscores the understanding that children are particularly vulnerable to the consequences of climate change. Decision-makers are acknowledging the imperative to create policies and practices that not only mitigate the environmental impact but also safeguard the rights of children in the face of climate-related challenges. This involves initiatives such as sustainable development, eco-friendly education, and measures to address the specific vulnerabilities of children in the context of environmental changes.

Launch of the video "Children in head of Adovcacy and Campaigns"

Children, with their unique perspectives and untapped potential, often spearhead positive change and innovation. By actively listening to their voices, we gain insight into their experiences, aspirations, and valuable contributions to society. Supporting these young voices means recognizing the significance of their opinions and ideas, acknowledging that they are not only capable of understanding the world around them but also instrumental in molding a better future.

Encouraging this engagement is a testament to our commitment to inclusivity and the belief that every individual, regardless of age, plays a crucial role in shaping a harmonious and progressive society. By providing a platform for children to express themselves and by actively supporting their endeavors, we contribute to fostering an environment that values diversity, creativity, and the potential for positive change.

Committee on the Rights of the Child meeting with Child-led Groups

The children presented their report "The changes we want to see" during the meeting of the Interministerial Committee for Children's Rights.

"The report is titled 'The changes we want to see'. They are many, but it was extremely difficult to highlight them in the context of this report, because politicians have rarely been direct with us, avoiding concrete commitments and accountability" - Loris, 15 years old.

While Verda, 14 years old, emphasized the commitments of decision-makers at the local level in the field of climate sustainability and environmental protection, presenting the capital investments foreseen by some municipalities in improving the environment during the governing mandate 2021-2025.

Deputy Prime Minister Mrs. Emilija Redžepi promised the children that I will do my best to address the needs and demands of the children in cooperation with the relevant Ministries.
"We need more cooperation when it comes to fulfilling the basic rights of children" - stressed the Deputy. Prime Minister Redžepi.

ECCD activities

During the Week of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, Save the Children in Kosovo sowed the seeds of knowledge and joy across five early childhood development and education care centers: Barilevë, Ozdrim, Demjan, Zhabar, and Lubavec.

The initiative takes a proactive stance toward environmental stewardship by involving children in the act of planting trees. Beyond the literal growth of saplings, this endeavor serves as a metaphor for nurturing a love for nature among the youngest members of our community. Through hands-on experiences, children are not only cultivating trees but also gaining a profound understanding of their pivotal role in preserving the environment. The endeavor promotes a sense of responsibility and instills eco-conscious values that contribute to a sustainable and harmonious future for our planet.

 Recognizing the power of creative activities and art as catalysts for learning, the campaign employs these tools to enrich the educational experience of children. By integrating play and artistic expression into the curriculum, children are not only having fun but also deepening their understanding of the importance of a sustainable future. The activities are designed to be engaging and age-appropriate, fostering a positive and curious mindset that will serve them well as they grow.

Amendment of the Law on Social and Family Services

The Parliamentary Committee for Health and Social Welfare, together with Save the Children Kosova/o  have been engaged in the comprehensive review of the Project-Law on Social and Family Services. This legislative initiative is a crucial step in addressing and enhancing the provision of social services, with a particular focus on sustainable financing aiming to create a more resilient and robust system for the delivery of social services. The committee has collaborated closely with representatives from theMinistry of Justice to ensure a well-rounded and informed discussion on the proposed law.

The Week of the Convention on the Rights of the Child becomes a celebration of holistic child development, symbolizing a commitment to nurturing both the cognitive and emotional growth of the next generation. It is through initiatives like these that organizations like Save the Children in Kosovo contribute to laying the foundation for a future where children are not only educated but also empowered to become stewards of a more sustainable and compassionate world.