This morning in Gozo an event was held to commemorate the occasion of the 25th Anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, organised by the Children’s Forum within the President’s Foundation for the Well being of Society, which was attended by the President of Malta Marie-Louis Coleiro Preca.

A special ‘Wall Event’ took place at Sir Michelangelo Refalo 6th Form College in Victoria, in order to give exposure to the Children’s Forum. Children had the opportunity to leave their message on special walls about child rights as well as express their ideas and perceptions regarding their childhood experiences and what changes they would like to see for future generations to achieve a higher level of well being.

Following an opening presentation by Dr. Daniela Azzopardi Bonanno, a video was shown, provided by the Children’s Commissioner, explaining the CRC. Also present for this morning’s event was Children’s Commissioner Helen D’Amato.

During her address President Coleiro Preca, noted the importance of such a convention, which highlights the fundamental rights of all children around the world.

The President then took part in a discussion with those children present. A similar activity has also been held in Gozo.

President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca and Children’s Commissioner Helen D’Amato, then wrote the first messages on the wall, followed by the children.

A publication highlighting children’s rights in a simplified manner was distributed to the children.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) is the most widely accepted international human rights treaty in history.

It sets out the rights held by every child up to 18 years old. Over the past 25 years, the CRC has been used to shape laws and systems to improve the lives of children around the world.

Photographs: MGOZ/George Scerri

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