World Children's Day 2024: Listen To The Future
Celebrating children's rights in Pakistan
World Children’s Day (WCD) is UNICEF’s global day of action for children, by children, commemorating the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) on November 20. This year’s theme, “Listen to the Future,” called on governments, private sectors, families, and communities worldwide to uphold children’s rights and prioritize their voices.
Today, children’s rights are at a critical crossroads. They face unprecedented challenges, from rapid global changes to ongoing conflicts, that threaten their basic rights to care, protection, and dignity. WCD 2024 urged meaningful dialogue between generations, empowering children to express their dreams, concerns, and aspirations for a better future.
In Pakistan, we brought this theme to life with exciting activities.
Listen To The Future Concert
In Karachi, for the first time we hosted a vibrant Listen to the Future celebration bringing together talented young musical performers, youth champions advocating for climate action and child rights, and a children’s theatre group presenting dramatic performances on the importance of protecting children’s rights. Schoolchildren from across the city participated in fun activities, enjoyed the performances, and learned about UNICEF’s work in Pakistan. The event was a celebration of creativity, unity, and the voices of the next generation.
Celebrations in Peshawar
In Peshawar, school children from diverse backgrounds were invited by UNICEF and the KP Provincial Assembly to conduct a historic parliamentary session for children, by children. They presented their hopes, dreams, and demands for a brighter future under this year’s theme.
The day continued with a special event for street-associated children, that featured an art exhibition by them, showcasing their creativity and highlighting their perspectives. Framed letters were presented to the Minister of Social Welfare, emphasizing the importance of listening to children. To close the day, Peshawar’s iconic landmarks, including the KP Provincial Assembly, Islamia College, and Peshawar Museum, were lit up in blue as a symbol of solidarity for children’s rights.
Letters to Adults
Across the country, we invited children to write letters to adults, sharing their thoughts on what children’s rights mean to them. These heartfelt letters expressed their hopes, fears, and powerful calls for a world where their voices are respected, and their rights are fulfilled. Each letter was a powerful reminder of how fulfilling children’s rights shapes their future.
Read the full letters here.
