Today, on World Children’s Day, the World Federation Against Drugs (WFAD) stands in solidarity with children across the globe, especially those impacted by the challenges of substance use disorders (SUD) in their families and communities. This day is a crucial opportunity to amplify the rights enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), ensuring that all children, regardless of their circumstances, have the chance to grow up protected, healthy, and empowered to participate in their future.

Children living in environments affected by SUD face specific vulnerabilities that demand our urgent attention and action. Article 33 of the UNCRC obligates States Parties to protect children from the harmful effects of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, emphasizing the right of every child to grow up in a substance free environment and grow up save and healthy.

On this day, we pledge to respect children’s perspectives, giving them platforms to express their experiences and ideas. By empowering them to share their stories, we allow them to play an active role in shaping policies and practices that can make a difference in their lives. We also endorse this year’s theme “Listen to the Future” and want to contribute to this mission and the right of participation with our own youth declaration. Spearheaded by youth from Pakistan, Kenya, Nigeria, Sweden, the United States of America, Sri Lanka, Suriname, and South Africa, the Youth Declaration captures the experiences, needs, and visions of young people across the globe and calls upon states and global actors to hear our voices and learn from our stories. Fill the survey out here until the 29^th of November 

World Children’s Day is more than a date on the calendar; it is a call to action to ensure that all children, particularly those affected by SUD, receive the protection, health care, and participation they deserve. WFAD urges governments, communities, and individuals worldwide to commit to the rights of these children, working together to break cycles of harm and create opportunities for resilience, hope, and a brighter future.

Today, let us stand united in building a future where every child’s right to protection, health, and participation is upheld, particularly those whose lives are touched by substance use disorders. Together, we can create a supportive world where all children are safeguarded, supported, and valued, empowering them to break free from cycles of harm and find pathways to resilience and hope.