Children’s engagement at the UNICEF Executive Board
Strengthening accountability, enhancing discussions and reinforcing the commitment to governance
The inclusion of children in UNICEF Executive Board proceedings reflects a commitment to child participation as an integral part of the Board’s core governance mandate and in alignment with the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Bringing children’s perspectives into the Board’s deliberations recognizes children as rights holders and affirms their right to be heard and to have their views given due consideration in decisions that affect them. Embedding child participation within Executive Board sessions helps to ensure that oversight and decision-making by the Board – and by UNICEF – are informed by the lived experiences of children.
This approach also reflects how UNICEF works at country level, where the participation of children and young people is embedded across programmes, policies and advocacy efforts. The voices shared with the Board bring forward children’s views, priorities and needs, as well as the actions they are already taking in their communities to advance child rights. Systematically engaging children strengthens accountability, enhances the quality and relevance of the Board’s deliberations and reinforces UNICEF commitment to governance that is informed by those it exists to serve.
“I urge UNICEF and its partners to do more on disability inclusion and prioritize inclusive education, accessible healthcare, awareness campaigns, financial support and inclusive policymaking.”
Taqwa, UNICEF Youth Advocate from Pakistan
During the first regular session of the UNICEF Executive Board in February 2025, as part of the briefing on the progress made towards the first UNICEF Disability Inclusion Policy and Strategy, 2022–2030, Taqwa, a UNICEF Youth Advocate from Pakistan, delivered a powerful message to the Member States:
“I am here today to demand change,” she said. “I urge UNICEF and its partners to do more on disability inclusion and prioritize inclusive education, accessible healthcare, awareness campaigns, financial support and inclusive policymaking. Provide us with opportunities to learn through digital technology, empowering us to become financially independent. Ensure resources reach those who need them the most.”
“By supporting youth-led climate initiatives and fostering collaboration between Governments, organizations and communities, we can develop sustainable solutions that ensure every child not only survives but thrives."
Madina, UNICEF Youth Advocate and Executive Director of the Madina Climatic Organization from the United Republic of Tanzania
In September 2025, Madina, UNICEF Youth Advocate and Executive Director of the Madina Climatic Organization from the United Republic of Tanzania, participated in a special focus session on water and sanitation. She highlighted the importance of water, sanitation and hygiene services that respond to children’s realities and the value of children’s participation in shaping sustainable water and sanitation solutions. “By supporting youth-led climate initiatives and fostering collaboration between Governments, organizations and communities, we can develop sustainable solutions that ensure every child not only survives but thrives. Let me conclude by urging us all not just to imagine that future. Let's build it together.
When you invest in children and youth, you're not just funding programmes; you're fuelling possibility, resilience and the unstoppable force of change.” Madina concluded.
"I think that if we continue, if we take advantage of this pace, of this rhythm, in which we are advancing for children’s rights and climate change, we can improve a lot the quality of life of children in the context in which they are living.”
Francisco, UNICEF Youth Advocate for Latin America
In September 2024, the UNICEF Executive Board hosted its first special focus session on climate change and children, creating space for children to share their perspectives on an issue that is reshaping their lives and their futures. The session highlighted that while climate change is accelerating, children’s specific needs, priorities and rights are still too often absent from climate policy, action and investment.
Francisco, UNICEF Youth Advocate for Latin America and Adia, Climate Activist representing the Caribbean, both made passionate remarks about the critical importance of children being at the forefront of the dialogues and initiatives surrounding the climate crisis and the need for them to be included, supported and empowered.
"And here we are, in the first special session in the history of the Executive Board of UNICEF talking about climate and children. I think that if we continue, if we take advantage of this pace, of this rhythm, in which we are advancing for children’s rights and climate change, we can improve a lot the quality of life of children in the context in which they are living,” said Francisco.