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“This year, we celebrate the Centenary of the Geneva Declaration of the Rights of the Child, which affirmed for the first time the existence of rights specific to children, and the responsibility of adults towards them. While marking this milestone, let us work together towards a world where every child can unleash its full potential.”
— Tatiana Valovaya, Director General of UNOG
The year 2024 marks the 100th anniversary of the first international recognition of children’s rights with the adoption of the 1924 Geneva Declaration by the League of Nations. This historic document laid the foundation for acknowledging and safeguarding children’s well-being.
While substantial progress has been made since 1924, challenges remain, including violence affecting children globally and emerging issues such as digitization and the climate crisis.
To renew this commitment, the 2024 Geneva Declaration on the Rights of the Child was crafted by Philip D. Jaffé, the City of Geneva, and Geneva-based civil society organizations. It was officially launched on November 20, World Children’s Day, by the City of Geneva.
The official translations of the Declaration in French, English and Spanish are available for download.
The updated Declaration has received strong endorsements, including from Ms. Tatiana Valovaya, Director General of the United Nations Office at Geneva, and the UNWG, which has proudly pledged its support for this vital initiative.We request all our UNWG members to join this effort and endorse the 2024 Geneva Declaration. Visit www.declaration2024.org to learn more, sign the pledge, and access resources in over 40 languages.
Ajkuna Thanati
President, UNWG