Universal Children's Day

Universal Children's Day History

Universal Children's Day is a global observance that aims to uphold the rights of children and promote their welfare. Established by the United Nations, the event raises awareness about the significance of investing in children's futures, ensuring their full development, and providing them with a supportive and nurturing environment. The observance also advocates for initiatives to protect and guarantee equal rights to all youngsters, regardless of their cultural, social, or economic backgrounds.

First proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1954, Universal Children's Day prompts nations worldwide to promote children's rights, including New Zealand. In 1989, the United Nations adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). New Zealand ratified this landmark human rights treaty in 1993, committing to protect and promote children's rights to health, education, family life, restitution, liberty, and freedom from cruel and harmful treatment. Therefore, Universal Children's Day serves as a reminder and inspiration for New Zealanders to collaborate in fostering a caring, inclusive society that honours and upholds children's rights.

In New Zealand, various schools, organisations, and communities observe Universal Children's Day by holding events and activities aimed at highlighting children's rights and celebrating their achievements. These events may include awareness campaigns, educational programs, and fun recreational activities designed to inspire, engage, and empower young people. Although the United Nations designates November 20th as Universal Children's Day, the date of local celebrations in New Zealand can vary depending on regional events and initiatives.

Universal Children's Day facts

• The UN General Assembly adopted the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child in November 1989. The United States drafted and signed the treaty, however it is the only member county that has not ratified it, meaning that the US is not legally bound by the Convention. Ratifying the treaty would go against certain laws in the US, most notably, the treaty forbids life imprisonment without parole for children under 18.
• According to UNICEF, 22,000 children worldwide die every day as a result of poverty, often due to preventable diseases such as diarrhea and pneumonia.
• According to the UN, in 2023, about 78 million children worldwide did not go to school at all due to conflict, climate disasters, and displacement.
• Children in New Zealand come from diverse ethnic backgrounds, with nearly 70% of children identifying as New Zealand European, over 24% as Maori, 13% as Pacific peoples, and 13% as Asian.
• New Zealand places a strong emphasis on early childhood education, with over 95% of children aged 3 to 4 participating in some form of pre-school education.

In the News and Trending in NZ for Universal Children's Day

Top things to do in NZ for Universal Children's Day

• Spend the day playing with your children, your nieces and nephews, your grandchildren or other children that you know. Take them to the beach, a playground, a movie, or any other outing of their choosing.
• Donate to support organizations that work with underprivileged children here in the US and abroad. These organizations ensure that children have access to education, basic health care, food, water and a safe home. SOS USA, UNHCR and UNICEF all provide care and protection to children domestically and internationally.
• Work with local media outlets to highlight issues related to children's rights and well-being. Create content such as articles, documentaries, or interviews that raise awareness about child-friendly policies, advocate for change, and showcase positive stories of children's achievements.
• Participate in or initiate campaigns that address issues such as child poverty, education, health, and safety. Spread awareness through social media campaigns, public demonstrations, or petitions, focusing on generating change in policies and systems that impact children's lives.