Pristina, November 20, 2023 – On the occasion of the Universal Children’s Day, the Ombudsperson reiterates the dedication and commitment to promote and protect the rights of all children, as prescribed in the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Law on Child Protection and other international and national human rights instruments.

Starting from the investigated cases, the Ombudsperson considers that it is necessary to discuss on this day the right of the child to live a life free from violence, exploitation and abuse. In relation to this issue, the Ombudsperson expresses concern about the presence of violence in the lives of children and the institutional response in the protection of children from sexual violence.

The Ombudsperson calls on all relevant institutions, including the government, the prosecutor’s office, the police and the courts, to fulfill their legal obligations to prevent, react and punish all forms of violence against children, including sexual violence. Furthermore, it calls on the government to allocate adequate resources and implement evidence-based policies and programs that address the root causes of violence and promote the safety and well-being of children.

The Ombudsperson points out that children have the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives and to express their views freely and safely. Therefore, adults are called upon to listen to and respect children’s voices, support girls and boys when they speak out against violence, and involve them in designing and implementing effective prevention and response strategies.

Likewise, the Ombudsperson encourages the children themselves to address their concerns and complaints regarding violations of their rights to the Ombudsperson Institution, where they will be treated with seriousness and dedication.

No child should suffer abuse and exploitation, and every child deserves access to justice, support and care. Therefore, on this Universal Children’s Day, we call on everyone to prioritize the prevention and elimination of violence against children and work towards a world where all children can grow up without fear and violence.

The Ombudsperson promises that he will continue to be committed to being a friend of children through the exercise of his mandate, always in defense of their rights, ready to cooperate and listen to their voice.