Govt accords top priority to child rights: Minister Sudi

Kathmandu, Nov 29: Minister for Women, Children and Senior Citizens, Nawal Kishor Sah Sudi, has said the promotion of fundamental rights of children who require special protection is the priority of the government.     

Speaking at the Centenary Celebration of Child Rights organized by Save the Children Nepal on Friday, the Minister stated that children are not only the future of the country but also a vital part of its present. “This is why improving their rights is a top priority for the government," he reiterated.     

The Minister observed a historic milestone of the centenary celebration of child rights has inspired for renewed efforts in this area, urging all stakeholders to remain committed to building an inclusive, child-friendly society. He extended his congratulations and gratitude to civic organizations, child rights activists, and children themselves on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Geneva Declaration on Child Rights.     

The voice for child rights gained international recognition with the adoption of the Geneva Declaration on the Rights of the Child in 1924. This historic document was the first to formally acknowledge that children have rights specific to their needs.     

Minister Sudi added that Article 39 of the Constitution and the Children’s Act 2075 (2018) specifically recognize the rights of children, outlining the state’s responsibility to respect and protect those rights. He also acknowledged the contributions of various government agencies, civic organizations, development partners, UN bodies, and children in advancing child rights.     

Save the Children Nepal’s national director, Tara Chhetri stressed that the issues surrounding child rights require collective concerns and concerted efforts.     

European Union Ambassador to Nepal, Veronique Lorenzo, also stressed the need for combined efforts to enhance the rights of children. (RSS)