RIYADH: The Arab Red Crescent and Red Cross Organization is participating in the worldwide observation of World Children’s Day, celebrated on Nov. 20 under the theme “For every child, every right.”
This initiative seeks to enhance awareness of shielding children from violence and exploitation, especially during crises.
It places a strong emphasis on preserving their health, ensuring proper nutrition, facilitating access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services, and implementing preventive measures to prevent them from diseases.
Dr. Saleh bin Hamad Al-Tuwaijri, the secretary-general of ARCO, underscored the significance of this event in putting a stop to the escalating violations of children’s rights, particularly their right to protection.
He emphasized their entitlement to education, encouraging their pursuit of the highest possible educational attainment while providing a secure learning environment. He stressed the importance of putting an end to assaults on children, and preventing them from exposure to danger, especially in armed conflicts.
Despite the special protection accorded to children not participating in armed conflicts by international humanitarian law and human rights treaties, they continue to face diverse risks.
Al-Tuwaijri noted that, despite legal safeguards, children in Gaza have endured severe Israeli attacks, resulting in the tragic loss of over 4,324 lives and leaving thousands injured. Their special needs for medical assistance, food, shelter, and clothing are recognized in the Geneva Conventions of 1977.
He urged the international community to shoulder its responsibility in protecting civilians, including children, and take action against these egregious Israeli violations of international humanitarian law.
Al-Tuwaijri elaborated on ARCO’s efforts, highlighting the establishment of a committee of legal experts operating under the Arab Center for International Humanitarian Law, affiliated with the organization.
This committee actively monitors and documents Israeli violations, with the objective of bringing the issue to the forefront of the international Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, UN organizations, and other entities, exerting pressure on Israel to adhere to international agreements, norms, and treaties.