The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP), in partnership with UNICEF, the Child Protection Network, and the Liberia National Children’s Forum, has launched World Children’s Day (WCD) 2025 under the global theme “My Day, My Right” and the national theme “Living with Dignity, Every Moment, Every Right.”

Speaking at the launch, Hon. Garmai Tokpah, Deputy Minister for Children and Social Protection, reaffirmed government’s commitment to protecting and empowering children across Liberia. She reminded attendees that WCD, celebrated each year on November 20, marks the 1989 adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC)the most widely ratified human rights treaty in history and serves as a reminder of the duty to uphold every child’s rights without fear or discrimination.

This year’s celebration focuses on accountability, urging policymakers to honor commitments made during previous observances. The main objectives include empowering children to engage decision-makers, strengthening the implementation of the Children’s Law of 2011, advocating for increased budgetary support for child protection, education, and health, and expanding access to services such as birth registration, HPV vaccination, and disability screening. Child-led environmental activities will also be featured to promote sustainability.

Delivering remarks at the event, UNICEF Country Representative Andy Brooks commended the Government of Liberia and child advocates for maintaining strong momentum in advancing children’s rights. “World Children’s Day is a powerful reminder that children are not only beneficiaries of change but active participants in shaping a better future.

Mr. Brroks called on the Liberian Government to be intentional by ensuring the appropriate budgetary allocation to address the various issues affecting children.

“UNICEF remains committed to working alongside the government and partners to ensure every Liberian child grows up healthy, educated, and protected from harm,” the UNICEF Representative said.

Activities leading up to the November 20 celebration include Radio discussions, Play days, Community clean-up campaigns, and the Children’s Parliamentary Session, where young representatives will present petitions to national leaders. A Veterans’ Reflection Meeting will also connect past and current child advocates to promote intergenerational mentorship.

Hon. Tokpah highlighted progress under the Save the Future Project, which supports children living in street situations. So far, 13,591 children have been reached, including 3,405 enrolled in formal schools, and 1,164 caregivers have received support, with 815 benefiting from business grants. The ministry is also working with the Ministries of Justice and Labor and city authorities to end child street peddling and hazardous work through a new joint communiqué.

“World Children’s Day 2025 is a call to action, to listen to children, accelerate protection measures, and turn commitments into tangible results. Together, we can build a Liberia where every child thrives, living with dignity, every moment, every right,**” Hon. Tokpah stated. She extended appreciation to UNICEF, Save the Children, Street Child Liberia, GiveDirectly, SOS Children’s Village, and all partners supporting child welfare efforts in Liberia.