When children speak, do we listen in times of global uncertainty? A call to act.
Adopted at the OMEP World Assembly and Conference in Poznań, the 2026 World Declaration calls for a renewed commitment to children’s rights amid conflict, displacement, climate crises, economic instability and widening inequality.
The Declaration affirms every child’s right to:
- Live in peace and security, free from violence, displacement and exploitation.
- Access high-quality, inclusive early childhood education and care from birth.
- Experience health, wellbeing and safe environments, including protection from climate impacts.
- Play, create and express their culture, including during times of crisis.
- Be heard and participate in decisions affecting their lives.
“Children cannot wait; their rights begin at birth. Our responsibility begins NOW.”
These rights require action at every level. The Declaration calls on governments to prioritise children’s rights, guarantee access to early childhood education through national legislation, and protect children affected by conflict and poverty. It asks educators and institutions to create inclusive environments, encourage dialogue and creativity, and support children’s agency. OMEP members and partners are called to amplify children’s perspectives and include them in our work.
For educators, the Declaration offers an opportunity to reflect on whose voices are heard, how children participate in decisions, and whether learning environments support every child’s identity, wellbeing and belonging. Its commitments connect international advocacy with the daily work of listening and responding to children.
In her October letter, World President Associate Professor Adrijana Višnjić-Jevtić encourages National Committees to use World Children’s Day on 20 November to bring the Declaration to governments, partners and communities, and translate it into local action. She invites members to mark the day with children, families, educators and decision-makers, and share their activities across the OMEP network.
