The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat has partnered with UNICEF to launch the inaugural Pacific Child Wellbeing Summit. This significant event aims to strengthen child protection systems and enhance children’s welfare across the Pacific region, closely aligned with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. Leaders from 17 Pacific countries, including Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, and Australia, are coming together for this critical initiative.
During the summit, key discussions will focus on safeguarding children from violence, abuse, and neglect, while also creating opportunities for their healthy development. Baron Waqa, the Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum, underscored the importance of investing in children’s welfare for the region’s future prosperity, stressing that their well-being should not be left to chance.
A significant outcome expected from this summit is a detailed report that will present key recommendations to shape future policies. This includes insights for the upcoming Pacific Regional Council for Early Childhood Development Forum scheduled for next year.
The summit is part of a broader commitment to child welfare in the region, reflecting recent efforts such as Fiji’s National Early Childhood Development (ECD) Policy for 2024-2028. This policy aims to ensure that children in Fiji receive necessary care, nutrition, and educational opportunities while being safeguarded from neglect and abuse. These initiatives collectively highlight a regional focus on child welfare, aiming for positive outcomes for children across Pacific Islands.
With a collaborative spirit and an emphasis on early intervention, the Pacific community shows a hopeful commitment to nurturing the next generation. Together, they are laying a strong foundation for a brighter future for children and society at large. The proactive actions taken today are essential for cultivating healthier, educated, and resilient future leaders in the Pacific.
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