Parallel and Side Events Contents Page

Children: Vital partners in globalization and the preservation of the Earth

Presented by Peaceways, the International Save the Children Alliance, and Children of the Earth

Blessing David, Nigeria, urged people of all ages to work with children to find solutions to children's problems. She presented the Children's Proposals to the WSSD Decision Makers, which include statements on clean drinking water, HIV, and children’s and human rights.

John Hilary, Save the Children Fund, examined the causes that prevent the world's poorest children to benefit from globalization. He noted that the Convention on the Right of the Child is inadequately incorporated into relevant WSSD discussions, because they focus on access to markets and privatization without considering adverse impacts on poor people.

Les Sanabria, South African Alliance for Street Children, called upon governments to engage in partnerships with civil society to protect children and to adopt and implement child-friendly legislation. He explained the South African government's plan of action to ensure recognition of children's rights.

Sipho Mathebula, South African Alliance for Street Children, shared his experience as a street child in Johannesburg and explained that many children run away from their dysfunctional homes in order to avoid abuse and neglect.

Edward Mtsuba, South African Alliance for Street Children, highlighted that street children have the right to be educated, respected and loved, and emphasized the importance of shelters to enable street children to realize their potentials.

Temidayo Israer-Abdulai, Young General Assembly, presented the book "Let's do it,” written by children to inspire and unite young people worldwide in implementing the World Fit for Children Plan of Action.

Kul Gautam, Executive Director of UNICEF, said that UNICEF ensures children's participation in the United Nations decision-making processes. He presented the book "A world fit for children," which summarizes commitments made by world leaders to improve the lives of children and young people.