Kathmandu: Save the Children, one of the world’s largest independent children’s rights organizations, marked a historic milestone by celebrating 100 years since the adoption of the Geneva Declaration of the Rights of the Child, the first international document promoting children’s rights. This landmark declaration, led by Eglantyne Jebb, founder of Save the Children, laid the foundation for global child rights advocacy.
The event also commemorated four decades of Save the Children’s partnership with children in Nepal. Reflecting on this journey, Tara Chettry, Country Director of Save the Children in Nepal, said we all need to work together for children. “Together with children, communities, and civil society organizations, we are fearless in our pursuit of upholding and advocating for child rights. Despite the challenges children face—ranging from climate-induced disasters to online and offline vulnerabilities—we stand united for their rights and their meaningful participation in society,” she said. “Now more than ever, we need to be together for children.”
She also called for more coordinated efforts between the three tiers of government, civil society organizations, and relevant stakeholders to ensure that child rights are considered the foundation of the nation’s development and prosperity.
The event featured the launch of a first-of-its-kind report entitled “Child Rights Movement in Nepal: Opportunities and Way Forward.” The report examines the evolution of child rights in Nepal and outlines future priorities, emphasizing the need for strategic investments in children and efforts to build the next generation of child rights activists to sustain the gains of Nepal’s child rights movement.
Speaking at the event, Nawal Kishor Shah Sudi, Minister for Women, Children, and Senior Citizens said children should be recognized as stakeholders in nation-building. “Children should be recognized as influential stakeholders in nation-building and the government is working towards upholding the rights of children, prioritizing children with special protection needs,” he said. “We are committed to ensuring their voices are heard at all levels of decision-making.”
EU Ambassador to Nepal, Veronique Lorenzo, highlighted the importance of civil society’s role in championing child rights: “Children are central and indispensable part of change. A vibrant civil society critical in ensuring the wellbeing of children. EU is committed to working with the government, Save the Children, and other partners to improve the situation of children.” She also stressed the need for coalition building and called for greater ownership from all sectors toward child rights.
The event also featured campaigns led by children and young people across Nepal, focusing on pressing issues such as climate and gender justice. Stalls from various CSOs highlighted initiatives advancing child rights in the country.
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