Protecting Children Worldwide: Pope Francis and UNICEF’s Executive Director Reflect on World Children’s Day
Amid the World Children’s Day events, Pope Francis and Catherine Russell, the Executive Director of UNICEF, joined forces to reflect on protecting children who suffer most from conflicts and disasters worldwide. The meeting between these influential figures sheds light on the urgent need to safeguard vulnerable children and prioritize their well-being.
UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund, operates in over 190 countries and territories to advocate for and protect the rights of the world’s most impoverished children and young people. Catherine Russell, during a three-day visit to Rome, participated in the Vatican’s first-ever World Children’s Day, which brought together thousands of children from various backgrounds and regions.
During the event at Rome’s Olympic Stadium, Russell urged children to work towards creating a peaceful and equitable world. She emphasized the importance of listening to children’s voices, especially those affected by conflicts and disasters. The meeting between Russell and Pope Francis highlighted the ongoing issues faced by children in conflict zones and emphasized the need for action to protect their futures.
Children in Crisis
Russell stressed that children are the most vulnerable in conflicts and disasters, often bearing the brunt of violence and injustice. Approximately 400 million children, one in every five, are currently living in or fleeing from conflict zones such as Gaza, Haiti, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Ukraine, and Yemen. Additionally, over 1 billion children live in countries at ‘extremely high risk’ from the impacts of climate change.
Commitment to Protecting Vulnerable Children
During her visit, Russell met with Italian President Sergio Mattarella to discuss strategies for safeguarding vulnerable children globally, including those in humanitarian crises and migrant and refugee children. Her visit coincided with the 50th anniversary of UNICEF’s National Committee in Italy, highlighting the country’s long-standing support for UNICEF’s mission to advocate for children worldwide.
