This page is background information, last updated in May 2002 and still available for reference. For the latest on the Special Session on Children, please go to the Special Session index.

Press Kit

A World Fit for Children

Twelve years ago, national leaders attending the World Summit for Children pledged to protect and promote the rights of children and young people world-wide. To fulfil that pledge they agreed to seven major goals that would improve living conditions and the chances of survival for all children. In May 2002, a record number of world leaders will gather once again in New York City to review their record of achievement and the factors that have influenced it.

Convened by the 190 Member States of the United Nations, the General Assembly Special Session on Children will bring together scores of leaders to examine detailed reports on progress made for children against the goals set in 1990 - as well as the glaring gaps that remain. Leaders will also be asked to commit to specific new goals for children in the decade ahead. Hundreds of non-governmental organizations are also sending delegations.

Beyond the establishment of new goals, the Special Session will encourage world leaders to explore the entrenched challenges that impact children's lives, including the HIV/AIDS pandemic, armed conflict and forced displacement, poverty, and the on-going exploitation of children as soldiers, sex workers, and labourers.

The Special Session was originally set for 19-21 September, 2001, in New York. Postponed by the September attacks, the rescheduled conference will now address the central role that investment in children must play in creating a more peaceful, stable world - a world that is truly fit for children.