Minister’s message: Universal Children’s Day

On Universal Children's Day, we Canadians recognize the fundamental importance of children to our lives, our families, and our futures. It is a day on which we celebrate the joy and pure delight that children can bring to our communities. It is a day on which we are thankful that in many parts of the world children will have opportunities to fulfill their full potential. For many children, however, the future holds few opportunities and little hope. They are denied access to basic health care and education in a safe, supportive environment.

Poverty and violence prevent many children from fully developing into healthy, productive adults. Nearly 300 million boys and girls live with violence, exploitation, or abuse, including child labour, armed conflict, and harmful cultural practices. Approximately 75 million of them do not have access to education, and up to 55 percent live in fragile states. Nearly 10 million die of preventable diseases every year, and 40 percent die in their first month of life. These are problems that children face worldwide.

The Government of Canada is committed to improving the health and welfare of children and youth throughout the world. I am proud that our government has focused on children and youth as one of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)'s areas of priority.

Canada's leadership in supporting children's education, health, and nutrition and children's rights is recognized. On Universal Children's Day, Canadians can be proud of the many efforts CIDA is making to help improve the lives of children by taking meaningful action that will effectively make a difference around the world.