Universal Children's Day

Universal Children's Day History

Universal Children's Day serves as a worldwide observance to bring attention to and promote the welfare of children globally. United Nations General Assembly established this day in order to advocate for the rights and welfare of children, as well as to encourage understanding and togetherness among children and the adults responsible for them. This purposeful observance focuses on promoting education, healthcare, and social protection policies that directly affect children.

Universal Children's Day has its roots in the 1954 Declaration of the Rights of the Child, which established the need to ensure the wellbeing of children in all aspects of life. For South Africans, Universal Children's Day possesses special significance, as it offers an opportunity to address numerous challenges faced by children in the country such as poverty, poor health and sanitation, lack of quality education, and violence. By observing this day, South Africans join the global call for improving the lives of children and encouraging cooperation among various stakeholders in order to enact sustainable change.

In South Africa, Universal Children's Day is often commemorated through events and activities organised by government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and communities. These events aim to raise awareness on the rights of children, as well as celebrate the achievements and contributions young South Africans make to their country. Officially, Universal Children's Day is celebrated on November 20th worldwide, aligning with the date on which the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 and the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989.

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.
• South Africa has made significant progress in access to education. According to UNICEF, the net enrollment rate for primary school-aged children is approximately 99%, and 84.1% for secondary school-aged children. However, the quality of education and high dropout rates remain major challenges.
• Many children in South Africa live and work on the streets, often due to family breakdown, poverty, and abuse. These children face significant risks, including involvement in crime, substance abuse, and exploitation.

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

Top things to do in South Africa 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.
• Plan and organize community events focused on children's rights and well-being. This can include fun activities, games, educational workshops, and performances.
• Support local children's charities and organizations through donations and volunteer work. This could involve donating supplies, sponsoring a child's education, or volunteering time at a children's home or orphanage.