Universal Children's Day

What Is "Universal Children's Day" on November 20?

Universal Children's Day is an international observance established by the UN in 1954. The date was chosen because the "Declaration of the Rights of the Child" was adopted on November 20, 1959, and the "Convention on the Rights of the Child" was adopted on November 20, 1989, both by the UN General Assembly. It's a day to think about and act on the rights, welfare, and protection of children around the world.

What Is the Convention on the Rights of the Child?

The Convention on the Rights of the Child is the most widely ratified human rights treaty in history, with 196 countries and territories as parties (Japan ratified it in 1994). The convention protects children's rights under four main pillars.

• The right to survival: The right to live with adequate healthcare, food, and a safe environment
• The right to development: Access to education, play, and cultural and creative activities
• The right to protection: Protection from all forms of violence, exploitation, and abuse
• The right to participation: The right to express one's opinions and take part in society

The Current Situation for Children Worldwide

Even today, many children around the world face severe hardships. According to a 2023 UNICEF report, about 333 million children live in extreme poverty, and about 121 million children are not attending school. In conflict zones, access to education, healthcare, and food is cut off, robbing children of their futures.

Issues Facing Children in Japan

Japan also faces issues affecting children close to home, including a child poverty rate of about 11% (2021), a rising number of children not attending school (around 300,000 in 2022, an all-time high), and an increasing number of child abuse reports (over 210,000 per year)—problems that need to be addressed.

What You Can Do on Universal Children's Day

• Consider donating to or supporting organizations like UNICEF or Save the Children
• Create an opportunity to talk with your family about children's rights
• Volunteer at a local children's cafeteria or support program
• Take a moment to appreciate the everyday lives we often take for granted on behalf of children