Every child counts!
To mark International Children's Rights Day, the Ev.-luth. Mission in Lower Saxony (ELM) and its international partner churches are joining a worldwide movement:
To mark International Children's Rights Day on 20 November, they are calling on governments to focus on the rights, dignity and future of all children. This day commemorates the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child - a milestone in the global commitment to protect, promote and give children a voice.
At the International Consultation on Strengthening Children's Rights in Hanover in November 2024, delegates from the partner churches reaffirmed their joint mission:
to implement, protect and make children's rights more visible.
The clear call for comprehensive protection against violence and abuse was given particular weight. The participants also emphasised how important it is to enable children to genuinely participate: "We call on the church leaders to strengthen the genuine participation of children in decision-making processes and to create structures in which children can actively exercise their rights and take part in what the church has to offer," reads the final declaration of the consultation.
Partner churches create prospects
In many countries, the ELM's partner churches are committed to strengthening children's rights on a daily basis - especially for children and young people who experience poverty, displacement or other forms of vulnerability. Their programmes include
- Education projects for better future opportunities
- Healthcare for disadvantaged children
- Psychosocial support for children in crisis situations
- Child protection programmes to ensure that children can grow up in safe environments
Together with partner churches, the ELM develops and supports programmes and campaigns to strengthen children's rights worldwide.
The motto "Every child counts" is a reminder that children's rights are universal, indivisible and non-negotiable. They apply everywhere and to every child - without exception.
Together for a fairer future
Children bear the image of God within them. As a missionary organisation, we therefore call on governments, churches, civil society and families to make a new commitment: to protect children, to take their voices seriously and to create safe and nurturing environments for them to live in.
