Deyana Kostadinova

Minister, thank you for the invitation to mark today a new step forward for inclusive education in Serbia. Over the past 15 years the Serbia has made important progress in, strengthening support for children with disabilities., Today’s event is yet another step in the long journey path: , Within a bigger project , for inclusive education,, generously supported by the European Union, , UNICEF procured 5 robots and developed, Serbian-language software, . Generous contributions, from donors and the Intesa Foundation, brought additional robots and assistive technology kits into classrooms. They will be donated to resource centres across Serbia.  , This is a small material step but it has s strong symbolic potential – the positive use of innovations. , We know that assistive technology has the power to bridge the gap between exclusion and participation. , It can help break down barriers, - physical, cognitive, or social. For children with disabilities, it can, enhance communication and foster social interaction, . But the impact goes even further., These robots will also inspire and motivate all students in the classroom, . Through game-based and interactive approaches, they will make learning more dynamic, enjoyable, and effective. And they will, foster inclusion, , and, nurture empathy, ., Using technology is a big step but alone is not enough., Teachers are heart of every classroom. They bring innovation to life. Dear teachers,, I hope these robots help you modernize your teaching and further motivate your students. , Only in your capable and competent hands can this technology fulfil its promise and make learning meaningful for every child. Finally,, I want to thank all our partners: , the Ministry of Education for their commitment, the European Union Delegation – for their unwavering support and generous investments over the years, Intesa Foundation, and all donors for supporting the inclusive education journey., As for UNICEF - the new 5 years program has been approved in NY on Wednesday, UNICEF remains committed to walking alongside Serbia, to ensure that every child feels, seen, valued, and included, ., Hvala vam!, dodela robota za IE OŠ Radivoj Popović/2025

Good morning, your excellences, Minister Paunović, Ambassador Sammelin, Ms Janković, esteemed partners, Dear Robert, thank you for your consistent efforts to keep the focus on important topics during challenging and distracting times. One may argue about what is important nowadays, so let me share my answer: at the end of the first quarter of the…, changing rapidly, ., Escalating conflicts, ,, accelerating climate change, ,, deepening inequalities, , are reshaping childhood in profound ways. At the same time,, technological innovation, and, global interdependence, are redefining how societies grow, govern, and care for their people. We still have an opportunity - and a responsibility - to ensure this transformation is a, force for good, . But this require building, resilient, prosperous societies, anchored in, peace and stability , - societies where, every child has the chance not just to survive, but to thrive, to develop, to contribute to prosperity, . We live in changing geopolitical context with new rules and priorities -, some governments around the world are significantly reducing international development and humanitarian aid budgets, . While respecting the political sovereignty to take of these decisions, let’s remember that these cuts are not just numbers in an excel sheet. These are decisions that, threaten millions of lives, , that push our colleagues around the world to make impossible choices – to provide vaccines or to provide food, to prioritize one region in front of the other. We should live with these choices and their consequences. The impacts will be visible:, disruptions in essential services like healthcare and education, , increased, fragility in social systems, , and, diminished resilience , in communities. This moment calls for renewed commitment. UNICEF sees the, private sector, not only as a powerful, economic engine, but also as a, critical partner, in delivering lasting change. Businesses have a profound influence on the world children grow up in - through the, environments they shape, , the, employment practices they follow, , and the, systems they support, . This influence can either help, close the gap between opportunity and inequality, - or widen it. UNICEF has a, strong and long-standing collaboration with businesses in Serbia. , Companies such as, Banca Intesa, ,, Yettel, ,, Delhaize, ,, Comtrade Group, , and, Nelt Group, have demonstrated that, corporate responsibility, goes beyond a donation -, it's about leadership;, it’s about, aligning business practices with long-term social good, . Together, we are supporting, national systems in Serbia, so they can stand strong in the face of, global uncertainty, . Our goal is to ensure that every child has access to, healthcare, education, and protection, . Because when, national systems are resilient, societies are resilient, . Businesses play a key role in this resilience – not only through funding and innovation but also by fostering environments that support families. One of the most effective ways businesses can contribute is by embracing, family-friendly policies, . Our, recent survey in Serbia, revealed that while, 80% of employers, are aware their staff struggle to balance work and family life, only, 60% have formal policies, in place to support them. And we know the consequences:, increased burnout, ,, health challenges, , and, reduced productivity, . UNICEF’s research confirms that, supportive workplace policies, lead to, healthier children, ,, stronger families, , and a, more motivated, productive workforce, . It’s a, win for business, , a, win for society, , and a, win for children, . That’s why earlier this year we launched the, Family-Friendly Policies Toolkit, , a, practical guide, for companies of all sizes to, turn intention into action, . These policies aren’t just about flexibility or paid leave. They are laying the foundation for, sustainable growth and social cohesion, . The path to, peace and stability, begins with, investing in our youngest citizens, , and it runs through every, boardroom, , every, factory floor, , every, HR policy, . UNICEF stands ready to work with each of you -, to support, ,, to advise, , and, to amplify your impact, . I will close with a simple but urgent call to action:, Let us measure success not only in profit margins, but in the well-being of children., Let us define prosperity not only by GDP, but by the strength of our communities., And let us remember that peace and stability are not abstract ideals. They begin with fair policies, empowered families, and children who are safe, healthy, and free to dream., Thank you for being here today and thank you for being part of this, shared mission, . The, future of Serbian children, - and the, future of Serbia, - depends on what we do together. Hvala! Deyana Kostadinova CSR 2025 UNICEF Srbija/2025/Dejan Stanković

NEW YORK, 5 March 2025, – “Announced and anticipated funding cuts will limit UNICEF’s ability to reach millions of children in dire need. “These cuts by numerous donor countries follow two years of aid reductions at a time of unprecedented need.  Millions of children are affected by conflict, need to be vaccinated against deadly diseases such as measles and polio, and…

Mr. Vlahovic, Ms. Grujic, Ladies and Gentlemen, It is not easy to speak today about the situation of children as global challenges mount. But I’m optimistic because I’m among friends, thank you Alexander to you and to the Association of the Economists of Serbia for prioritizing children and youth in the Forum’s agenda. Today, we are witnessing a…, geopolitics, economics, climate change, and technology. , Allow me to elaborate on each of them., Geopolitics: , Conflicts are increasingly threating children’s lives, rights, and well-being. Projections indicate that in, 2025, 213 million children in 146 countries, and territories will need humanitarian assistance. This means that sustained global actions through the multilateral system are essential to protect civilians, especially children., Economy: , Economic prospects in emerging markets are discouraging, with growth well below the 7% target set in the Sustainable Development Goals. A mix of pandemic aftershocks, climate disruptions, and resource constraints has reduced expected growth prospects in emerging markets from historical averages of 5.6% to just 4% for 2026–2029., Children are particularly vulnerable to the disruptions caused by escalating geopolitical tensions and the resulting fragmentation of supply chains and global trade. This shift towards de-globalization is expected to deepen in 2025., Technology: , Digital public infrastructure (DPI) is the basis for the large-scale delivery of digital public services. This could benefit children and families by ensuring equitable access to essential services such as education, health care and social protection. This could drive inclusive digital transformation, effective governance, innovation, and promote…, immense potential to be child-centred, and to ensure equitable opportunities for all children., Climate Change: , Children are disproportionately impacted by climate change due to their unique physiological and developmental characteristics. The effects on their development, health, education and well-being can be lifelong and irreversible. Their future depends on our commitment to, sustainable national planning and financing, and business regulations, which should be child centered., These , global trends, undoubtedly, affect children in Serbia, , but the country also faces, its own challenges., Even though Serbia has made significant, progress, in advancing children's rights, particularly in early childhood development, inclusive education, and mental well-being,, gaps persist, . This is especially true for children from low-income families, children with disabilities, those living in rural areas and in informal settlements - especially Roma children. Some alarming, statistics , highlight these, disparities., Serbia’s, population , stands at, 6.65 million, , with only, 17% of children. , A combination of low fertility rates and high out-migration has made Serbia one of, the fastest depopulating countries in the world, . The outflow of skilled labour is threatening Serbia’s overall economic growth, and is particularly weakening key sectors like healthcare and social services. Nearly one in five children (19.5%) lives at risk of poverty. , At the same time every year, 60,000 young children need targeted support to overcome developmental difficulties., While, 92%, of Roma children, enroll, in primary school, only, 64%, complete it., More than half , (50-60%) of the, most vulnerable, children do not achieve basic literacy. An estimated, 12%, of each generation needs, additional learning support, . Almost, half of children (45%), aged 1-14 experience violent discipline at home with long lasting consequences., Every second girl, living in an informal settlement is married before 18, which increases health risks and reduce her chances of escaping poverty., 5,260 children, in Serbia live, without parental care, (89.2% in foster families, 10.8% in institutional care)., Two of three children, (66.4%) in residential institutions have developmental disabilities, and, one third, (30%) of them are not enrolled in school. These children are, Serbian citizens, part of Serbia’s human capital, ., This is where we must focus our efforts—not tomorrow, not someday, but right now!, A healthy, educated, and empowered child today becomes tomorrow’s skilled worker, compassionate leader, and innovative thinker., Human capital is not built overnight., It is nurtured through every policy that protects children’s rights. This doesn’t mean only providing services but also, safeguarding all children’s rights, including their voices to be heard, their freedoms of expression and association, their right to education., These rights, enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child, are interconnected and interrelated. They are the foundation of a just and prosperous society. Ladies and Gentlemen, In this challenging landscape and uncertain times, UNICEF has a unique opportunity to reinforce resilience, and continued progress for children. With, our track record, of delivering innovative and sustainable solutions with a, diverse range of partners, – public and private – we have successfully navigated crises before, over the last 79 years. This moment is no different. We are confident in our ability, to continue, delivering for children even in turbulent times, thanks to the diversity of our, funding, and, partnerships, . Your support is more crucial than ever. By joining forces with UNICEF, you are, not, just donating. You are, investing, in, immediate , life-changing support for children and in, building , resilient systems and communities that can withstand future challenges., Together, we are a force for good!, Hvala., Deyana Kostadinova KBF 2025 UNICEF Srbija/2025/Nikola Ilić

Your Excellencies, Esteemed Business Leaders, Dear Colleagues, Dear Robert,, Thank you for consistently inviting UNICEF to present the perspective of children at this foresight event every year – for over decade. It makes sense that UNICEF is here, as we’ve heard this morning the vision of leaders – politicians, diplomats – the vision of adults shaping the world. But it is vital to remind ourselves that the world we build…, Let’s reflect on What kind of future are we shaping for our children? Will it be one filled with opportunity, health, and security—or one overshadowed by inequality, crises, and broken systems?, On 20 th November – World Children’s Day – UNICEF issued a Report named the State of the World’s Children 2024. It identified, three critical global megatrends that will profoundly shape childhood between now and 2050:, demographic shifts,, climate crises,, and the rise of frontier technologies., These megatrends represent both remarkable opportunities and challenges. They compel us to act—not only to respond to today’s issues but to lay the foundation for the future we want to live in. Let’s look at the national dimensions of these megatrends:, The demographic transition—where fewer children are born globally, and populations age—creates both opportunity and responsibility., While some regions may benefit from a demographic dividend, Serbia is struggling with its own challenges. Serbia has a total, population of 6.65 million, , of which only, 17% are children. , A combination of low fertility rates and high out-migration has made Serbia one of the fastest depopulating countries in the world.  The labour outflow through migration is threatening Serbia’s overall economic growth and is particularly weakening the health and service sectors., For Serbia, investing in everyone child is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic necessity., Without these investments, without a guarantee that every child from Belgrade to the rural village has access to health, education, social services, we risk losing the human capital needed to sustain Serbia’s growth and prosperity., Meanwhile, climate change is no longer a future threat—it is a crisis of today., Globally, nearly half of all children live in areas at high risk of climate hazards. In Serbia, floods, heatwaves, and environmental degradation are already impacting communities, with children often being the most affected., They are uniquely vulnerable., Climate action is not just about preserving the planet—it is about, protecting children and their ability to thrive. That’s why the perspective of children should be integrated in all climate policies, including in NDC 3.0. This moment could be the last chance to align the global emission trajectories with the goals from the Paris Agreement, securing a sustainable future., And then there is technology., Artificial intelligence, neurotechnology, renewable energy, and digital tools hold incredible promise., These innovations could revolutionise education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for children., Every child—whether in the heart of Belgrade or the most remote village—must have access to these achievements., Technology must be a tool for inclusion, not a driver of inequality. And yet, we should not turn a blind eye on the possibility of misuse., The timely regulation of the emerging technologies should have the child’s perspective at its heart., Ladies and Gentlemen,, While shaping our actions to respond to these three megatrends, we must not forget one fundamental truth: child rights are not optional. They are non-negotiable., All children in the world, every Serbian child, have the right to quality education, to live free from violence; to access healthcare; and to grow up in a safe and clean environment., These rights are not privileges for a few; they are universal entitlements for all. Through ratifying the Convention on the Rights of the Child, Serbia committed to ensure them and next year the preparation for the Committee for the Rights of the Child hearing of Serbia’s report will take place, scheduled for January 2026., Serbia already has made significant strides to advance ensuring child rights in many areas – early childhood development, inclusive education, psychological wellbeing, to name some of them. Yet, we know that some gaps still persist., Effective access to essential services—in health, nutrition, education, and protection—remains limited for low-income children, living in rural areas, children with disabilities and particularly Roma children. This disparity is robbing children of opportunities. This disparity is robbing Serbia of strong human capital., This is where we must focus our efforts—not tomorrow, not someday, but right now., A healthy, educated, and empowered child today becomes the skilled worker, the compassionate leader, and the innovative thinker of tomorrow., Human capital is not built overnight., It begins with every policy that protects children’s access to services. Our responsibility does not end with providing services., It extends to safeguarding all children’s rights, their voices, their freedoms of expression and association, and their right to assembly., These rights, enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child, are the foundation of a just society – a society built on the sense of belonging and personal responsibility to contribute to the community’s prosperity., Serbia’s path forward is clear: invest in children now to secure a better future for all., The future is not something we await—it is something we build together., Let us honour the voices of children by acting decisively today!, Hvala., Deyana World 2025 UNICEF Serbia

Vaša ekselencijo, ministarka Djukic Dejanovic, Your Excellency, Deputy Ambassador of EU Madam Halacheva Dame i gospodo, drage kolege,  It’s a special feeling to be here today as part of the opening panel of the Inclusive Education Conference – a conference that marks the end of an extremely important and humane project ……. But also, a conference,…, World Children’s Day,, marked on 20 November, and it reminds us of our responsibility to guarantee the rights of every child – in this case to ensure that every child has access to inclusive, quality education. Our region, like most of the world, faces a, growing crisis in learning, . In addition, Serbia faces demographic challenges and has made demographic resilience a priority.  This makes transforming our education systems to be more inclusive an urgent priority. The challenges are clear: Recovering the, learning lost, during the pandemic. Ensuring, quality learning opportunities accessible to all, , especially the most marginalized. Providing, inclusive education for, children with disabilities, for Roma children, children living in poverty, and refugee and migrant children who often lack access to education.  One may ask:, What is the added value, of inclusive education for the demographic resilience? The answer is simple:  Inclusive education builds a strong, diverse human capital base – human capital that can ensure a country’s prosperity. Human capital that includes every citizen., Beyond the economic aspect, , there is an even stronger one: education is a child right and every child has the right to education. By ratifying the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, countries commit to ensure this right. Serbia has demonstrated a strong commitment to this path, advancing slowly but steadily…, Inclusion is not just a policy – it is a vision!, Inclusive education goes, beyond, placing children with disabilities in mainstream schools. It requires rethinking of how our education system supports the needs of, every child., And it requires support from the whole of society., I still remember, how at the beginning of my career some 20 years ago, in another country, I visited an institution for children with intellectual disabilities. And there was one boy, who was 11 years old, who approached me, held my hand, and begged desperately: Please help me, I’m not crazy, I want to go home and to go to school with my friends and my sister .  I…, what inclusion means, : children like Ivan to live with a family, to go to school and to learn with his or her peers, to be supported by dedicated teachers. This vision of inclusion means creating communities where, every child,, including these with unique needs, has friends and feels, valued, . And later contributes to society in their own valuable way. This requires a fundamental transformation in education systems, the reason why genuine inclusion is still a big challenge worldwide., In the last fifteen years,, Serbia has taken significant steps toward this vision. Acceptance of inclusive education is growing. We see the evidence in the increased enrollment of children with disabilities and Roma children in mainstream education. However,, equity gaps, in the enrolment and completion rates at all education levels remain. Many children from disadvantaged backgrounds face barriers in completing their education, and only, 11% of the poorest children access early, childhood education., Approximately 90%, of the vulnerable students in vocation schools, are functionally illiterate, according to PISA 2022. And……Attitudes toward schooling of children with disabilities in regular settings are still negative., Education institutions, can and should play a critical role in reducing social and economic inequalities, marginalization, and segregation., Schools and teachers, need continuous support, including through stable financial mechanisms, to achieve full educational inclusion, meeting diverse needs of learners. Innovations like, resource centers and model schools, need more investment to expand their reach. All of these is a precondition, but, transforming special education, is key - not only to achieve desegregation and inclusion but also to make the most of the skillful human resources in these institutions. They can and they should be the agents of change as they are qualified, they work with dedication, and they want the best for their students. Ladies and gentlemen, Looking, forward,, Serbia is now in the, second round of inclusive education reforms,, with invaluable support from the European Union. I would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Madam Halacheva for this generous investment and I would like also to thank all the development partners whose investments paved the way for the reform.  Over the last 15 years, our strong collaborative efforts with the Government, EU, World Bank, SDC…, assess, what has worked, identify areas for, further bold actions, , and deepen our, commitment, to meaningful inclusion. In closing, I congratulate the Ministry of Education and educational authorities for their ongoing dedication and results achieved in this area. We are on the right path toward a vision of education that serves every child in Serbia. Ladies and gentlemen, let us agree to, meet again, at a new conference next year to celebrate our continued progress – together., Because only inclusive education is education for every child., Hvala. Deyana Conference Inclusive Education UNICEF Srbija/2024/Shubuckl

Your excellencies, Minister Lončar, prof. Djukic-Dejanovic, Minister Zigmanov, Minister Stamenkovski, dear Fabio, Džana, ladies and gentlemen, Today, we come together with a powerful vision: a world where every child and young person has their mental health prioritized., This vision is urgent, and together, we have the power to make it real., Milica’s story is just one of many. Her struggles reflect the silent battles young people face every day. And these battles are often hidden., We must not ignore what we cannot see, ., Our children, young people, parents, caregivers, and all the professionals around them - they need our support - now - more than ever., The mental health of our adolescents and youth is under pressure., Many suffer quietly, unable to share the weight they carry. For every Milica who finds the courage to speak and seek for help, there are countless others who don’t. We must be the ones to create a safe space for them -, a place where they feel heard, valued, and supported., Investing in mental health is essential. It is not optional., It is an investment in our future., Healthy children and young people become thriving adults—, contributors, creators, and leaders, . Every euro we invest in mental health brings back economic benefits many times over: reduced healthcare costs, fewer dropouts, lower crime, more productive workforce., When we invest in mental health, we are building a resilient society that can face any challenge., For this – we should everyone involved in a young person’s life., Children and young people need guidance. Parents need the right tools. Teachers need training. And mental health professionals need resources. It takes a village to raise a child and a whole society to raise a healthy generation., Serbia is leading the way!, The Memorandum of Understanding between six key ministries, with the Ministry of Health at the helm, and the establishment of a Working Group on mental health, have laid a solid foundation. Our ongoing, collaboration with WHO, further supports these efforts, providing guidance and expertise., We cannot stop now. Let today be a turning point., Let us push further to ensure community mental health services are available to every child and every young person. More funding, prevention, early interventions, community-based care - these are the steps that will build a truly resilient nation. Youth centres in Serbia are offering safe spaces for young people to express themselves and seek help…, But we cannot stop here., The tragedy at Ribnikar last May highlighted the urgent need to support the mental health of our young people., We must ensure that every child and young person knows they matter, that they belong, and that they have a future worth striving for., We know that the Government alone could not achieve this. We must act together. Governments, schools, communities, families, and partners—only together can we create a meaningful impact., And we have an excellent start:, The commitment of our incredible partners, —the Australian Embassy, the Norwegian Embassy, the Embassy of Israel, Delhaize, L'Oréal and the Electric Power Industry of Serbia—, to working with UNICEF to improve mental health services for young people in Serbia is amazing., These partnerships , amplify our reach. They make our work possible. Only together, we can reach more young people, offer more hope, and create lasting change., The change requires courage. It takes energy. And it takes partnership., That is what today is all about. Thank you for your commitment. Thank you for being part of this journey. Hvala! Deyana Kostadinovic 3 MHPSS Conference 2024 UNICEF Srbija/2024/Shubuckl

Dear Mr. Ložo, Mr. Jevrosimović, Anja, dear partners,  It’s always a pleasure to visit the Comtrade Campus and particularly today. First, because this place stands as a, symbol of business success, , especially after many turbulent years for the global economy. And second, because today Comtrade Distribution and Tesla, as leaders in the IT industry with over 30 years of experience, decided to, support UNICEF’s mission to empower young people with digital skills, . I recently came across an interview with Mr. Jevrosimović in Forbes magazine. He emphasized that, success isn’t just about adopting innovative digital practices; it requires an agile mindset. , I couldn’t agree more. This principle applies not just to businesses, but also to governments and development organizations. Today, young people face a range of new and complex challenges, but also opportunities. As technology and globalization continue to shape the future of work,, digital literacy is crucial, for preparing the next generation to compete both locally and globally. And we should ensure that, no one is left behind in the digital revolution – particularly the most vulnerable., This requires, a new approach to education , with a focus on developing skills through formal, non-formal, and informal education. This should help young people, become agile, adaptive learners, and citizens ready to tackle personal, academic, social, and economic challenges. This’s why we are here today -, to join our forces, resources, and expertise to make a meaningful impact on the youth in Serbia, . With Comtrade Distribution’s support, we’ll be developing youth programmes that, bridge the digital skills divide, particularly benefiting young people from disadvantaged communities, . These digital literacy workshops will, empower them to navigate the digital world effectively., Our partnership with Comtrade Distribution demonstrates the power of collaboration between business, government, and non-profit sectors. And this initiative builds on the, Ministry of Tourism and Youth’s , commitment to enhancing youth spaces. The world is racing to develop the technologies that will shape national economies and societies for decades to come. With its aging population,, Serbia cannot afford to fall behind in this race, , nor can it, ignore any strategic vulnerabilities., We are deeply grateful to Comtrade Distribution for their commitment and passion for investing in the youth who will build a competitive and prosperous society. Hvala! UNICEF Comtrade Deyana UNICEF Srbija/2024/Pančić

Mr Jelić, Assistant Minister Stojanović, Ms. Sočanac, dear partners,  It’s a privilege to welcome you at UNICEF’s office.  The conference room we’re in now has witnessed many significant, historical events over the last 30 years. Today is another such event. It marks the beginning of a very special partnership; a, shining example of how Serbian business leaders, can impact the lives of children and youth in Serbia. We all know that the cornerstone of social progress and sustainable economy lies in building, robust human capital, . UNICEF has recognized this fundamental necessity and assessed the challenges it entails. One of them is , equipping all children and young people with essential 21st-century skills, . Here in Serbia, we worked with MoE to address it through the “Bridging Digital Divide” project, with the generous funding of the, European Union, . Our collaboration with NELT Group builds upon the successes of this project., As a convener, , UNICEF, leverages resources from diverse partners , to ensure that children receive the skills needed for a complex, digitalized world., The private sector has emerged as a critical force for change, . With their vast resources and expertise, the businesses are pivotal in addressing pressing global challenges. They recognized that it’s critical to equip children with the necessary 21 st -sentury skills and support them to become tomorrow’s innovators and change-makers. By preparing school students for joining the labour market and have a…, together we shape the future – the future of prosperity., Today, we launch our transformative three-year partnership with NELT Group. With a generous investment of 1.3 million US dollars,, NELT Group is leading by example, , demonstrating the powerful role that Serbian businesses can play on both the local and global stage as the project will be implemented in Serbia, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and extending to Angola in 2026. Here in Serbia our partnership will support the Education Development Strategy 2030. NELT Group’s trajectory over three decades…, nvesting in children today is an investment in the future of our societies – the future we want to live in. , NELT’s, leadership sets an example, and we, hope others will follow, . Hvala!  deyana nelt deal signing UNICEF Srbija/2024

On the eve of the European and World Immunisation weeks, , we are here together to send a clear message –, immunization is Humanly possible, .  Before vaccines were developed, the world was a dangerous place to live. Millions of people died every year from diseases that can now be prevented., In just 5 decades, we’ve gone from a world where the death of at least one child was something every parent expected, to a world where every child has a chance. But this is true only, IF, the child is vaccinated. What is the cost of inaction: In just three months of 2024, our ECA region has already reported more than, 40,000 cases of measles, , with some of them resulting in fatalities. If we do not act urgently, the toll on lives will escalate. __________ Serbia is gradually approaching the desired vaccination rate. But it is concerning that not every child is getting the protection he or she needs. There are 3 important steps that we should take together:, 1. We must confront misinformation with clear and strong arguments , and ensure that every parent gets timely and comprehensive information about immunization. 2. We need to make vaccination even easier,, ensuring that it is available whenever parents are free, and their child is healthy. , With simple steps like, addressing barriers to scheduling vaccinations and reducing missed opportunities, we can increase vaccination rates., And we already saw good examples of that. 3. We need to ensure that every frontline healthcare provider is equipped with, knowledge, confidence, and skills to engage in non-judgmental conversations, with parents about vaccines. Particularly paediatricians who are the most trusted source of information for parents., Because parents have the right to ask questions and to receive answers. This can empower them to make informed choices., _________ UNICEF has worked with Ministry of Health and the Institute of Public Health, to, strengthen immunization programming in more than 60%, of the most affected districts with the lowest immunization coverage. We have invested in the, professional development of 340 health professionals,, equipping them with advanced knowledge and communication skills. Our mobile application, Bebbo, provides evidence-based information for parents and helps them in tracking their children’s vaccinations. It has over 100,000 users in Serbia. And we are about to launch a, new immunization chatbot called AIDA, , which will provide easily accessible information on vaccinations to digitally savvy parents.    As you see – immunization is , Humanly possible., And I invite all stakeholders – health authorities, our good partners from WHO, UNICEF, the media, and community leaders - to join forces and intensify our efforts in promoting immunization. Hvala! immunization week UNICEF Srbija/2024

Dobar dan, dragi učenici i teachers Your excellency Minister Đukić Dejanović, Ambassador Giaufret, Mayor Radičević, Ms Tončić, ladies and gentlemen, I'm happy to be here today and celebrate the inclusive education with you. The progress achieved so far in this school clearly shows that inclusion is possible! Congratulations to all of you for the…,  , want to witness their students' achievements. And leaders in the current demographic situation aim to equip, every single child, with the necessary skills to join the labour market, and provide them with a decent and productive live. The education system in Serbia has been making significant strides on its inclusive education journey. I extend my appreciation to the Ministry of Education, the municipality of Aleksinac, and our long-standing partner, the EU Delegation in…, sense of belonging within their school community, ., Schools can truly thrive only when everyone feels like they're part of a unified team. In Serbian, the alphabet – azbuka - consists of 30 letters. Each letter plays a crucial role because only together they can form words, sentences, and tell a story. Similarly, every child in the classroom is incredibly important, as everyone is a society member…

Your excellency First Deputy PM Dacic, dear UN colleagues, ladies and gentlemen,   It is wonderful to see this room full of young people interested to learn about the work of the United Nations. I’m sure this event will give you also the opportunity    , to practice the skills, of careful listening and dialogue, articulation of compelling arguments, negotiations, conflict resolution and consensus building.  These skills are, fundamental to uphold the three pillars of the UN, - human rights, peace and security and sustainable development. These skills are crucial for the success of individuals and, for building resilient communities, . In the next few days,, you will be diving, into important topics, and, climate change, is a decisive one for our future. Climate change has a major and multi-dimensional impact on the health, life, opportunities, and the potential of growth for every child and young people. This issue is not confined by geographical boundaries. It is affecting children and young people everywhere –, even in in high-income countries., This is not simply a moral assertion. It is a legal commitment embedded in  the  UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC)  - the world's most widely ratified human rights treaty and the, foundation for UNICEF's work, with and for children and adolescents. This Convention, created in 1989 and, ratified by 196 states, , outlines universal children’s rights such as the right to life, survival and development, and the right to health. And recently the Committee on the Rights of the Child issued a, General Comment on children’s rights and climate change., Children and youth are directly affected by climate change, and they are, also acting, claiming their right to a healthy and safe environment, , and bringing solutions to the table. And we, UNICEF, support them and empower them.   As children, – you - are the generation that will inherit the consequences of the world’s actions or non-actions today, . YOU, worldwide, have been leading the fight against climate change; calling on governments and corporations to take action to protect the planet and your future. It is crucial that you continue to raise your voice, to actively engage in the process, and to provide innovative solutions.  , Young people in Serbia have proven that youth, , when provided with the right recourses and tools – are, powerful agents, of change, at local, national and global level:, At local level:, in Užice they have contributed to the, increased demand for solutions, to improve the energy efficiency of households: by visiting households, they promoted the, initiative of the local self-government, to access subsidies for changing individual fireplaces. UNICEF Youth4Air ambassadors, participated in the consultation processes, for developing local policies affecting climate change and air pollution in several cities such as Subotica, Loznica, Priboj, Užice. In more than, 30 municipalities, , young people have implemented over, 25 projects for, solving problems and raising awareness about the issue of climate change and air quality in Serbia. Ideas such as an AI model for identifying sources of pollution in, Kikinda, , bus stops with living green roofs in, Zrenjanin, , environmental podcasts in, Kruševac,, a vertical garden in, Novi Sad, , and others are just some of these creative ideas. At national and global level Youth4Air Network delivered the, First Serbian Youth Declaration on Air Quality, after consulting with 1,000 young people. Insights of our youth, were channelled to YOUNGO, the official youth group, of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. This reinforced youth involvement in global discussions and decision-making processes. Members of our Youth Advisory Board are part of the, Youth-Led Action against Climate Change, , a joint initiative by UNICEF, Headquarters and five country offices, from different parts of the world. Partnerships like these highlight how, young people in Serbia can be powerful agents, of change on all levels when equipped with the right resources. In the next few days, as you take the role of world leaders, , hold these examples, at the forefront of your minds., It is not enough to understand the scale of the challenge, but to act, to create inclusive, innovative, and sustainable solutions. This applies not only to climate change but in any aspect of your rights. I wish you good work and much success in your further studies and careers. And my wish is to see you soon at the table for negotiations. BIMUN launch event UNICEF Srbija/2024