World Children’s Day: children at the heart of mobilisation against violence
This year, on the occasion of World Children’s Day, celebrated on 20 November, together with several of our local partners, we chose to shed light on the violence experienced by children in street situations.
Although the Convention on the Rights of the Child affirms that every child has the right to be protected from all forms of violence, this promise remains out of reach for children in street situations. Left on their own, they face physical violence from passers-by, from law enforcement officers or from groups of delinquents with whom they are too often mistaken. Alongside this physical violence, many are subjected to sexual abuse as well as psychological and verbal violence with no protection, no support and no avenues for help.
Our campaign calls for strengthened action to ensure effective protection for these children and to remind everyone that no child should ever be forgotten on the streets.
To mark the 20 November, our partners in the Republic of the Congo, Cameroon, Morocco and the Democratic Republic of the Congo mobilised together with children to carry a clear and essential message: “Being protected from violence is a right, even on the street.”
Through a wide range of awareness-raising actions, advocacy activities, artistic expression and public speaking initiatives led by our partners, children were able to share their experiences, their hopes and their recommendations. Through their voices, they reminded us that violence, in any form, should never be part of a child’s life.
Dive into these mobilisations and celebrations.
Republic of the Congo: the Children’s Rights Festival
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In Brazzaville, on 14 and 15 November 2025, the organisations within the REIPER network and the children celebrated World Children’s Day through two days of engagement dedicated to the rights of children in street situations, as part of the Children’s Rights Festival.
On 14 November, a roundtable brought together representatives of the State, security forces, civil society, the media and youth around the theme: “Protecting children in street situations from violence.” Participating youth shared their experiences, their messages, and their recommendations to the authorities. On 15 November, a large cultural event gathered more than 500 children. Artistic performances including theatre, slam, music, flute and dance, along with sports activities and contributions from committed artists, gave rhythm to this festive and mobilising day.
These two days combined awareness-raising, dialogue between stakeholders, artistic expression and advocacy, all with a clear goal: to highlight the violence experienced by children in street situations and to reaffirm the need for adequate protection. The Children’s Rights Festival delivered a strong message to authorities, families and communities: children in street situations must be protected, heard and recognised as children above all.
“We want to grow up in a Congo where every child is protected, educated and respected. We will not give up this dream.” A young Congolese participant
Morocco : artistic expression in the face of violence
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In Morocco, the association Al Karam marked World Children’s Day by organising a series of artistic workshops for vulnerable children. Under the theme “Express Your Rights”, the children took part in drawing, painting and creative expression activities, giving them the opportunity to translate into images their perceptions of violence, their needs for protection and their aspirations.
True to its mission of educational and social support for children in street situations and in high vulnerability, Al Karam turned this day into both a moment of awareness-raising and a moment of empowerment, where each child could affirm their right to be protected, heard and respected.
Through these initiatives, the association continues its essential commitment: providing children with the tools to understand their rights, denounce the violence they experience, and look ahead to a safer future.
Cameroon: advocacy to address violence against children in street situations
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In Yaoundé, the Foyer de l’Espérance organised a series of activities bringing together children, educators, local authorities and community members. These events highlighted the violence faced by children in street situations, as well as their right to protection. Under the theme “Advocacy to address violence against children in street situations,” the day drew attention not only on physical violence, but also on the invisible wounds such as psychological violence that too often go unnoticed.
The activities began with awareness-raising and advocacy initiatives aimed at informing the public and authorities about the physical, psychological and sexual violence experienced by children in street situations. Through these actions, the Foyer de l’Espérance reminded everyone that ensuring their protection requires medical, psychological and administrative support — all essential to enabling children to grow up with dignity and safety.
These moments of exchange were followed by educational workshops and cultural activities, during which the children were able to express themselves freely through sketches, dance and various artistic performances.
“World Children’s Day became a space where these young participants could stand tall, no longer as wandering silhouettes, but as legitimate, confident and heard voices.” Lionel, educator
Democratic Republic of the Congo: a day of celebration, expression and discipline through sport
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In Kinshasa, ORPER celebrated World Children’s Day by bringing together 84 children in street situations for a day centred on listening, awareness-raising and collective expression.
The celebration began with a discussion on children’s rights, giving participants the opportunity to share their experiences and speak about the different forms of violence they face on the streets.
One of the highlights of the day was a capoeira performance led by the children themselves, which captivated the audience. Practised regularly at the centre, this activity helps strengthen discipline, focus and solidarity, while offering a structured and empowering space for self-expression.
The day concluded in a warm and festive atmosphere with a shared snack, a simple yet essential moment, where laughter, conversation and collective joy reminded everyone of the importance of providing safe spaces where children can express themselves, reconnect and feel fully recognised.