The Commission joins in saluting the youth who played such a central role that culminated in the major changes that our country has experienced since 1994. Much remains to be done to ensure that children’s rights are respected by all in South Africa. Our society continues to be blighted by violation of children’s rights. Many children continue to face abuse on a daily basis, the quality of education for some children leaves much to be desired and many children live in conditions of extreme poverty. All these conditions have a major impact on the future development of these children and consequently on the overall advancement of South African society.

The Commission takes this opportunity to also recognise the fact that since 1991, the then Organisation of African Unity (now African Union) recognised June 16 as the Day of the African Child. This year the Day of the African Child is being marked under the theme “No Child Left Behind”. The theme encourages all players to ensure that attention is paid to those children who are not benefiting from Africa’s growth and development. Children should be at the centre of all development agendas. The Commission therefore calls on all role players (state and non-state actors) in South Africa to continue playing their part vigorously in ensuring that South African children, particularly those in disadvantaged situations are not neglected in development agendas. No country can develop if it does not take care of its future generations.

Ends

Issued by the South African Human Rights Commission
Gail Smith – Spokesperson Tel: 060 988 3792 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Gushwell Brooks – Communications Co-ordinator Tel: 082 645 8573 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.