The Bahamas and other United Nations (UN) member states are today observing Universal Children’s Day.

Minister of Social Services and Community Development, Melanie Griffin is now urging all parents and guardians to recommit themselves to ensuring the care, protection and well being of their children.

On December 14, 1954 the UN passed a resolution recommending that all countries institute a Universal Children’s Day as a day of worldwide fraternity and understanding between children.

Eventually, November 20 became the designated date for the observance as it was on this date in 1959 that the United Nations adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child.

It was also on the same date in 1989, that the Convention on the Rights of the Child was adopted.

“As we observe Universal Children’s Day, we acknowledge that around the world, there are children who are victims of abuse, children who are living with the conflict of war, children who are living in extreme poverty, children without proper healthcare and education and children whose basic rights are being denied,” said Minister Griffin.

“We must continue to urge world leaders and persons in positions of authority to find the will and the means to bring about the changes needed to correct these situations. Let us resolve on behalf of all children to promote peace, equality and friendship throughout our country and by extension throughout the world.”

The social services minister said The Bahamas gives thanks “to God for our children and the joy they bring to our lives.”

“On this day, we also acknowledge that children have rights and as a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, The Bahamas is committed to ensuring that these rights are upheld and protected,” she said.

“It is important that our children are aware of these rights and in this regard, I acknowledge and commend the efforts of the National Child Protection Council and the Department of Social Services of my Ministry for the “I Gat A Right” seminars organised for children, parents, care givers and professionals to inform them of these rights.”

Seminars are ongoing in New Providence and the Family Islands, particularly during Child Protection Month, she noted.

The minister said she would continue to take the seminars throughout the various islands of The Bahamas to ensure that all children and people in general are aware of these rights.

“Additionally, one of the functions of the National Committee for Families and Children, which is established under the Child Protection Act, is ‘promoting, monitoring and evaluating’ the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and ensuring that the government meets its national and international obligations as a party to the Convention,” she said.