Dear Editor,

UNICEF Jamaica is calling on leaders to champion the rights of children by ensuring that policies and decisions are child-centred.

As the world observes World Children’s Day under the theme ‘Listen to the Future. Stand Up for Children’s Rights’, UNICEF is calling on policymakers to protect, uphold, and invest in children’s rights for a brighter, more equitable future.

This year also marks the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), and this milestone focuses global attention on the progress achieved since the adoption of the CRC in 1989 and underscores the urgent need for continued efforts to address persistent challenges faced by children, especially in Jamaica.

Despite advancements in policies and advocacy for child protection, significant gaps remain that threaten the well-being of children, particularly in Jamaica. Of key concern are the recent findings from the Jamaica Violence Against Children and Youth Survey 2023 which reveal alarming trends. The survey found that three in four youth, ages 13-24, reported that they experienced violence during their lifetime. Additionally, the survey found that children and youth who experienced violence have higher rates of health and social problems such as chronic disease, mental health issues, substance abuse, and violence perpetration later in life.

The survey highlights the systemic challenges that exacerbate these issues that stymie the rights of children to protection and to live without fear and violence. Limited access to support services, under-reporting of abuse due to stigma or fear, and insufficient investment in violence prevention programmes are just some of the factors.

The findings emphasise the critical need for strengthening violence prevention and response mechanisms, as well as a collective commitment to break the cycle of physical, emotional, and sexual violence that affects so many young lives.

To amplify the voices of children for this year’s observance of World Children’s Day and to mark the commemoration of the 35th anniversary of the CRC, UNICEF is collaborating with Kingston Creative to produce a mural on child rights. This activity will take place during Kingston Creative’s Art Walk Festival on Sunday, November 24.

The public art installation will reflect the voices and aspirations of children and young people, serving as a powerful visual reminder of the importance of standing up for children’s rights. The mural, which will be painted by children and youth, will also symbolise hope, resilience and the collective responsibility to nurture the next generation.

UNICEF encourages Jamaicans to join the conversation on social media using #WorldChildrensDay, sharing stories and pledges to support children’s rights.

Together, we can listen to the future and act now to secure a better tomorrow for all children.

Olga Isaza

UNICEF representative