The Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, Najat Maalla M’jid, presents her annual report, reflecting on her actions in 2024. Celebrating the fifteenth anniversary of her office, she highlights significant multi-stakeholder engagement and the urgent escalation of child trafficking, illustrating the desperate need for stronger measures to protect vulnerable children from this rising tide of violence.
This report, mandated by the General Assembly, reiterates the global commitment to eradicating violence against children. With endorsements from numerous resolutions, the role of the Special Representative has been reinforced, promoting the implementation of recommendations from critical UN studies, particularly those addressing the plight of children deprived of liberty.
As the landscape of child exploitation evolves, this account underscores the growing risks children face. Factors such as crises, increased technology use by traffickers, and a rising demand for exploitation fuel the need for intensive global cooperation and decisive action. The complexity of trafficking necessitates immediate, coordinated efforts to combat this grievous violation of children’s rights.
The Special Representative actively sought contributions from Member States, civil society, and UN organisations, receiving valuable insights from over 60 participants. Their collaborative efforts, supplemented by input from groups like the Inter-Agency Coordination Group against Trafficking in Persons and UNICEF Innocenti, reflect a shared commitment to protecting children against trafficking. Support from the UNODC and ILO further emphasises the collective response required to tackle this complex crisis.
The Special Representative’s report details actions taken in 2024, celebrating the fifteenth anniversary of her office. It highlights a disturbing rise in child trafficking, stressing the need for global cooperation and prompt action to curb this crisis. Over 60 contributions informed the report, showcasing a collective commitment to protect children from violence.
In summary, the annual report by the Special Representative reveals the increasing challenges of violence against children, particularly in the context of trafficking. It calls for urgent global action to protect vulnerable children, advocating for comprehensive collaboration among nations, civil society, and UN bodies. The concerted efforts to combat this issue will define the future safety and rights of children worldwide.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
