(ZENIT News / Vatican City, 11.20.2024).- On the morning of November 20, Pope Francis made a significant announcement during his weekly audience in St. Peter’s Square: the Vatican will host the “World Meeting on Children’s Rights”, titled “Love Them and Protect Them,” on February 3, 2024. Surrounded by a throng of children, the pontiff emphasized the urgent need to address the plight of millions of children worldwide who remain deprived of their basic rights.
The event will bring together experts and leaders from various nations to explore innovative strategies for safeguarding children who face exploitation, abuse, war, and extreme poverty. In a heartfelt gesture, Pope Francis highlighted the role children themselves will play in preparing for this historic day, symbolizing the essence of empowerment and inclusion.
A Global Appeal for the Vulnerable
“Millions of children live in precarious conditions, are exploited and mistreated, and suffer the devastating consequences of conflict,” Pope Francis stated, marking the occasion of the International Day of the Rights of the Child. “This meeting is an opportunity to identify new ways to help and protect them.”
The announcement resonated deeply with those gathered, particularly the children present, who rushed to embrace the Holy Father. This visible connection underscored the Pope’s profound commitment to fostering a world where the youngest and most vulnerable are seen and valued.
Establishment of the Pontifical Committee for Children’s Rights
Coinciding with the announcement of the February summit, Pope Francis introduced the formation of the “Pontifical Committee for the World Day of Childhood”, tasked with organizing initiatives that promote children’s welfare globally. Father Enzo Fortunato, named president of the committee, praised the Pope’s unwavering focus on the future of the world’s youth.
“This is a testament to the Church’s dedication to protecting the smallest among us,” Father Fortunato remarked. “It is a call to action, not just for Catholics, but for humanity as a whole.”
The committee will work closely with the Community of Sant’Egidio, Auxilium, and other organizations to ensure the success of this event and future initiatives, including the “World Day of Childhood” slated for September 2026.
A Historical Perspective on Children’s Rights
The February summit aligns with a long history of advocacy for children. The International Day of the Rights of the Child commemorates the adoption of the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, a landmark document rooted in principles first articulated in the 1924 Geneva Declaration on the Rights of the Child.
For over three decades, these frameworks have underscored the global responsibility to ensure children’s access to safety, education, and dignity. The Vatican’s upcoming meeting reaffirms this commitment while seeking fresh solutions to contemporary challenges.
Children at the Heart of Change
The Pope’s focus on involving children in the preparation of the summit is emblematic of his belief in their agency. The young participants at the announcement represented diverse backgrounds, including Catholic schools in Rome, Indonesia’s community, and peace schools run by Sant’Egidio. Their enthusiastic response reflected the universal relevance of this mission.
In the words of Father Fortunato: “The world’s smallest voices often carry the greatest truths. Through this initiative, Pope Francis reminds us to listen and act.”
A Message of Hope and Urgency
As wars rage and inequalities deepen, the Vatican’s call for global collaboration on children’s rights serves as a clarion reminder of shared human responsibility. February’s summit will not only spotlight the challenges but inspire concrete actions, urging leaders to prioritize the well-being of the youngest members of society.
By placing children at the heart of its mission, the Church is extending an invitation to the world: to protect, to empower, and to love without bounds. As the Pope concluded his announcement, the children in attendance offered the simplest yet most profound response: “Thank you.”
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