Rights Activists Sues For Equality, Zero Discrimination As The World Marks Street Children Day

By Patrick Obia

Nongovernmental organizations and Rights activists have sued for equal rights, zero discrimination for children living in the streets, as the world marks the International Day for Street Children.

The International Day for Street Children, observed every year on April 12th, aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by millions of children living and working on the streets worldwide. This year, the theme “Embracing Belonging” is said to underscore the importance of acknowledging children as integral members of the society and ensuring their rights and well-being are protected.

In a joint press release signed and issued by Prof. Eka Ikpi Braide and Eseoghene Edoja-Ibor, for Basic Rights Counsel Initiative and the Coalition of Youth Serving NGOs and Individuals, noted that it is important to highlight the critical steps governments must undertake to support children in street situation and create a more inclusive and equitable society.

They held that Governments should prioritize policies and initiatives that promote equality and non-discrimination. This they said includes implementing laws and regulations that protect the rights of all children, regardless of their socio-economic background or living situation.

The NGOs averre it is important to create a safe and supportive environment for children living in street situations, advising Governments should collaborate with local authorities and organizations to provide shelters, counseling services, and legal aid to protect vulnerable children from exploitation, abuse, and violence.

Part of the release reads: “Provide Access to Basic Services: Every child has the right to access essential services such as education, healthcare, and nutrition. Governments should ensure that children in street situations have equal access to these services by removing barriers such as cost, distance, and discrimination.

“Offer Specialized Solutions: Recognizing the unique needs and challenges faced by children in street situations, governments should develop specialized programs and interventions tailored to their circumstances. These include outreach programmes, vocational training, and rehabilitation services aimed at reintegrating these children into society.

“On this International Day for Street Children, our commitment to building a world where every child, regardless of their background or circumstances, be given the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their potentials, should be reaffirmed. By embracing a sense of belonging, we stand in solidarity with these children towards a fairer and more compassionate society.”