President Paudel calls for coordinated action to safeguard children’s rights

KATHMANDU: President Ramchandra Paudel has said that the Constitution of Nepal enshrines the rights of children as a fundamental right. He has called for an integrated and coordinated role for government and non-governmental organisations, civil society, parents, schools and other stakeholders to implement national and international commitments and the constitutional and legal provisions concerning children.

Extending his best wishes to Nepali children and parents on National Children’s Day, President Paudel noted that reports of children being deprived of their rights persist and stressed that it is the responsibility of all relevant parties to prevent inhumane treatment, violence and abuse against children.

National Children’s Day is observed every year on Bhadra 29, the anniversary of Nepal’s ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). This year’s slogan is ‘Investment in Children: The Beginning of a Secured Future’.

President Paudel said he hoped the day would prompt society and the state to prioritise children’s interests by providing creative, practical, free and quality education; nutritious food; safe drinking water and sanitation; necessary vaccinations; child-friendly health services; and policy-level, legal and child-friendly measures for their welfare.

“I hope that this day will help to ensure equal opportunities for children of all groups and communities by creating a safe environment at home, at school and in the community,” he added.

By RSS