Arab Children's Parliament Engages At Child Rights Summit In Morocco To Address Key Issues

The Arab Parliament for the Child (APC) recently participated in the 17th National Conference on Children’s Rights in Morocco. Ayman Othman Al Barout, the Secretary-General, led the APC delegation and addressed attendees during the opening session. He extended greetings from Sharjah and commended Morocco's leadership under King Mohammed VI for its dedication to advancing children's rights amid evolving social and technological landscapes.

Al Barout highlighted that children today are more informed and involved, making them active contributors to sustainable development rather than mere beneficiaries. He advocated for their meaningful inclusion in planning, implementation, and evaluation processes through genuine dialogue platforms where they can voice their aspirations and challenges.

The conference served as a crucial venue for discussing pressing issues like violence against children—especially online—digital transformation, climate change, inclusive education, mental health, and future skills. These topics align with the Arab Parliament for the Child's vision of equipping young people with essential 21st-century tools.

The Secretary-General praised Morocco's delegation to the Arab Parliament for the Child as a "founding and outstanding delegation." He noted its active participation in parliamentary sessions and media presence, consistently representing Morocco with distinction. This recognition underscores Morocco's commitment to child rights advocacy on both national and international stages.

The event drew extensive participation from government bodies, national and international experts, UN agencies, civil society organisations, and child parliamentarians from across Morocco. Discussions focused on developing a realistic roadmap for child protection up to 2030 that considers environmental, social, and technological changes.

Al Barout emphasised the importance of addressing critical issues affecting children today. He called for collaborative efforts to tackle these challenges effectively. "Today’s children are more aware and engaged than ever," he stated, highlighting their potential as partners in shaping a sustainable future.

The conference underscored the need for comprehensive strategies that integrate children's perspectives into decision-making processes. By fostering an environment where young voices are heard, stakeholders can better address the multifaceted challenges facing children in today's world.

With inputs from WAM