UNICEF Launches State Of The World’s Children Report At Dubai Future Forum 2024 To Address Youth Issues

UNICEF and the Dubai Future Foundation hosted a significant event at the Museum of the Future to commemorate World Children’s Day. This day marks the anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The event was part of the Dubai Future Forum 2024, which gathered futurists and thought leaders from 19th to 20th November to discuss global issues shaping our future.

The launch of UNICEF’s annual report, State of the World’s Children, was a key highlight. This report delves into critical issues impacting children worldwide. This year, it featured insights from foresight work with UNICEF Innocenti’s Global Youth Network and Youth Foresight Fellows.

World Children’s Day is a reminder that all children deserve care and protection. It encourages discussions that involve young people, allowing them to think about their future and express themselves freely. The event aimed to engage youth in conversations about their rights and future prospects.

Bo Viktor Nylund, Director of UNICEF Innocenti – Global Office of Research and Foresight, expressed his honour in launching the report at the forum. He stated, "Exploring the possible outcomes of trends like demographics, climate change, and the impact of digital technologies allows us to plan ahead and shape a better future for children."

An interactive exhibition titled ‘The Future of Childhood in a Changing World’ was unveiled following the report launch. Bo Viktor Nylund officially opened this exhibition at the Museum of the Future. It featured future child personas living in three distinct worlds, emphasizing urgent actions needed to uphold children's rights.

The exhibition saw participation from UNICEF Gulf Ambassador Balqees Fathi, an Emirati singer, along with guests and partners from UNICEF Gulf Area office. It highlighted scenarios that stress the importance of adhering to the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Global Dialogue Platform

Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation, remarked on the significance of launching UNICEF's report at this forum. He said it serves as a reminder of our shared duty to protect children's well-being globally. "As a platform for global dialogue and foresight," he noted, "the Forum is a fitting space to examine pressing challenges facing young generations."

The Dubai Future Foundation remains dedicated to promoting initiatives that ensure readiness for future generations' needs. The forum provided an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss strategies for safeguarding children's futures amid evolving global challenges.

With inputs from WAM