Statement of the Movement of Afghanistan Women in Exile On the Occasion of International Children's Day – 1 June

Statement of the Movement of Afghanistan Women in Exile On the Occasion of International Children's Day – 1 June

On the occasion of International Children's Day, the Movement of Afghanistan Women in Exile joins the international community in reaffirming the fundamental rights of every child and recognizing our shared responsibility to ensure that all children grow up in an environment of safety, dignity, education, and opportunity.While this day is celebrated around the world as an occasion to promote children's well-being, development, and future, millions of children in Afghanistan—particularly girls—continue to face significant challenges that affect their access to education, protection, and equal opportunities.The Movement of Afghanistan Women in Exile expresses its deep concern regarding policies and practices that may undermine the rights and well-being of children, particularly measures that facilitate or legitimize child marriage. Child marriage is widely recognized as incompatible with the rights and best interests of the child. It can deprive children, especially girls, of access to education, healthy development, personal autonomy, and the opportunity to realize their full potential.We firmly believe that every child, regardless of gender, deserves the opportunity to enjoy a safe childhood, receive quality education, and develop in an environment free from violence, coercion, exploitation, and discrimination. No child should be deprived of these fundamental rights.Afghan girls, like children everywhere, should be able to attend school, pursue their aspirations, and contribute to their communities without fear of forced or early marriage or other forms of discrimination. Ensuring equal opportunities for all children is essential not only for their individual well-being but also for the future prosperity, stability, and development of Afghanistan.On this occasion, we respectfully call upon the United Nations, UNICEF, international human rights organizations, governments, and all stakeholders committed to children's rights to continue strengthening efforts to protect Afghan children, particularly girls. We encourage sustained international support for initiatives that expand access to education, prevent child marriage, safeguard children's rights, and provide meaningful opportunities for Afghan children to thrive.The Movement of Afghanistan Women in Exile reaffirms its commitment to promoting and defending the rights, dignity, and well-being of all children in Afghanistan. We will continue to advocate for every child's right to education, protection, and equal opportunity, while supporting efforts that contribute to a more inclusive and hopeful future.On this International Children's Day, we stand in solidarity with the children of Afghanistan and reaffirm our hope for a future in which every child can grow up in peace, enjoy their fundamental rights, and realize their full potential.Every child deserves a childhood defined by safety, education, dignity, and hope. Protecting the rights of children today is an investment in a more peaceful, just, and prosperous tomorrow.

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