Prishtinë, 1 June 2021 – On the occasion of the International Children’s Day, Institution of the Ombudsperson articulates the importance of this date to reflect as a society with regard to the state of children’s rights.

This day should serve as a call to everyone with regard to protection and respect of children’s rights, who are bearers of their rights and who should be active participants in their accomplishment. Ombudsperson’s Annual Report for last year has displayed that children still face difficulties in fully enjoying their rights, particularly in exercising their right to education as well as social and health protection.

The Ombudsperson gives emphasis to the fact that children should have a life without violence as a fundamental right as well as a necessary precondition for their physical and mental health. Notwithstanding this fact, there have been some recent cases of violence against children but also violence among them in schools. Due concern and seriousness must be given to these incidents by all institutions in order to prevent their occurrence in the future so children do not feel unsafe in schools. We must jointly work as to ensure that children participate meaningfully in school and in community so that they can grow to their full potential, with dignity and welfare.

Since promulgation of new Law on Child Protection on 17 July 2020, the Ombudsperson draws attention of all stakeholders and institutions responsible for enforcement of this Law as well as requires supreme commitment in protection and guaranteeing the best interest for children in Republic of Kosovo.

Children’s Day is celebrated on 1st of June each year by many countries around the world and was proclaimed International Children’s Day at the World Conference on Child Welfare in 1925, in Geneva, Switzerland. That day, 54 participating countries adopted the Geneva Declaration on the Protection of Children.

Photo by: Robert Collins , @robbie36