It was established with a strong historical background rooted in the global recognition of children's rights and the need to promote their welfare. Here’s an overview of the historical context and reasons for setting up this important day:
Historical Background📚
🧒🏻World Conference for the Well-being of Children (1925)：
The idea of dedicating a day to children was first proposed during the World Conference for the Well-being of Children in Geneva, Switzerland, in 1925. This conference brought together representatives from different countries to discuss child welfare and led to the proclamation of a universal Children’s Day to promote the importance of children’s rights.
🧒🏻Universal Children's Day by the United Nations (1954)：
In 1954, the United Nations established Universal Children’s Day to encourage all countries to institute a day, first to promote mutual exchange and understanding among children, and second to initiate action to benefit and promote the welfare of the world's children. The UN recommended that each country should choose an appropriate date to celebrate.
🧒🏻Declaration of the Rights of the Child (1959)：
The UN adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child on November 20, 1959. This document outlined the rights to protection, education, health care, shelter, and good nutrition.
🧒🏻Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989)：
The Convention on the Rights of the Child was adopted by the UN General Assembly on November 20, 1989. This comprehensive human rights treaty set out the civil, political, economic, social, health, and cultural rights of children. Universal Children’s Day on November 20th commemorates this significant milestone.
Reasons for Setting Up International Children's Day🔍
🧒🏻Promoting Awareness of Children's Rights：
International Children's Day serves as a platform to promote and advocate for the rights of children globally, ensuring that their basic needs for education, health care, protection from abuse, and the right to participate in decisions affecting their lives are recognized and respected.
To raise awareness about the rights of children as defined by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and other international agreements.
🧒🏻Highlighting Issues Affecting Children：
To highlight the unique challenges that children face, including poverty, lack of access to education, malnutrition, child labor, and exposure to violence and exploitation. By raising awareness, it prompts governments, organizations, and communities to take actions to address these issues.
🧒🏻Encouraging Action and Advocacy：
International Children's Day serves as a catalyst for advocacy and action. Organizations and individuals use this day to launch initiatives, campaigns, and programs aimed at improving the lives of children. It is a day to mobilize resources and commitment towards child welfare.
🧒🏻Celebrating Children：
To celebrate and acknowledge the importance of children in society. It’s a day to appreciate their potential, talents, and the joy they bring to families and communities. Events and activities are often organized to make children feel valued and special.
🧒🏻Global Solidarity and Cooperation：
The day fosters a sense of global solidarity for children's causes. It unites countries and communities in a shared commitment to improving the lives of children, regardless of their geographical or cultural differences.
🧒🏻Education and Empowerment：
Educational activities on this day help children understand their rights and empower them to speak up and take an active role in their communities. It also educates adults and policymakers about the importance of investing in the future of children.
Different Dates and Celebrations🎉
While November 20th is recognized by the United Nations as Universal Children’s Day, many countries celebrate International Children’s Day on different dates:
June 1st： Commonly celebrated in many countries, especially in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
Second Sunday in June：The United Kingdom.
These dates and celebrations reflect the cultural and historical contexts of different regions, but they all share the common goal of promoting the rights and well-being of children.
Conclusion📢
International Children's Day, with its rich historical background and global importance, serves as a critical reminder of the need to prioritize children’s rights and welfare. It is a day that unites countries and communities in celebrating children and advocating for their protection, development, and well-being.
