In commemoration of the 34th World Children's Day, nations party to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child are engaging in various programs today. This significant day marks the anniversary of the Convention's passage on November 20, 1989, by the United Nations General Assembly.
Worldwide, the occasion is being marked with a focus on ensuring and safeguarding children's rights through the implementation of policies and programs addressing issues such as protection, development, and participation. In Nepal, all 42 articles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, 1989, have been fully implemented.
These articles encompass provisions regarding the best interests of children, the enforcement of rights, life protection, identity and development safeguards, as well as the respect for children's thoughts and feelings. The responsibilities of parents, social security, prevention of child labor, trafficking, transportation, abduction, and the promotion of child-friendly justice are also integral aspects of the Convention.
With 33 years having passed since Nepal ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989, the nation has made significant strides in upholding children's rights. On September 14, 1990, Nepal unconditionally ratified the Convention, committing to its principles. Since then, the country has undertaken constitutional, legal, policy, structural, and programmatic measures to ensure the effective implementation of the Convention's provisions.
In the wake of ratifying the Convention, Nepal has progressively enhanced the rights and interests of children through amendments to its constitution, laws, policies, periodic plans, institutional structures, and annual policies and programs. The annual celebration of Children's Day in Nepal, aligned with the date of Convention ratification on September 14, 1990, underscores the nation's ongoing commitment to prioritizing and advancing children's well-being.
