The protection of children's rights is of the utmost importance – it preserves their dignity, nurtures their potential, and fosters a just and inclusive society. By upholding children's rights, we ensure that youth are respected, their voices heard, and their future secured, leading to a brighter and more equitable world.

Today, on International Children's Day, the Public Defender’s Office (PDO) organized an event that provided a platform for children to engage in discussions about their rights.

This event was made possible with the support of the USAID-PDO Partnership Program and the USAID Rule of Law Program.

The Public Defender of Georgia, Levan Ioseliani, emphasized the significance of protecting children's rights every day of the year. He assured the children that his staff and he diligently study their concerns, and when they believe a child's rights have been violated they make recommendations and communicate with the relevant institutions or individuals responsible for safeguarding those rights. The Public Defender highlighted the importance of improving protection measures to ensure that children are better safeguarded.

Lisa Kovack, Acting Director of the Office of Democracy, Rights, and Governance at USAID/Georgia said in her address to the event participant children: “You children are the future of a prosperous and free Georgia. All children have the right to a safe childhood, to be protected, and to feel safe. You have the right to share your opinions, and to develop critical thinking skills, your creativity, and your ability to express yourself. USAID will continue supporting Georgia in providing greater opportunities for all children.”

Representatives from the PDO engaged in discussions with the children regarding their rights, covering topics such as the right to life, right to development, right to education, and protection from any form of violence. Based on the information received, the children were encouraged to express their ideas and wishes by creating artwork that reflected their aspirations for the full protection of their rights.