In July and August 2024, MHREC held two workshops where we explored various aspects of children’s rights, from the rights themselves to applying children’s rights in the community.
Children’s Rights Workshops 2024
On the afternoon of Monday 1st July 2024 we held the workshop at Dar P Magri in Msida and on the morning of Saturday 10th August we held the workshop at Ronald McDonald House Charities in Qawra. Both workshops were identical in terms of content. The intention was to offer the workshop on two separate occasions to cater for different availability both in terms of location and timing of the workshops.
The workshop agenda items included:
- Introduction to Children’s Rights – An in-depth session covering the fundamental aspects of children’s rights
- Roundtable: Applying Children’s Rights in the Community – A roundtable discussion aimed at practical application. MHREC will present 5-6 questions to guide our discussion and explore how best to implement these rights within our communities.
Key Takeaways
- Balance of Theories: We need to balance the welfare and will theories to ensure that children are both protected and empowered.
- Climate Change: Addressing climate change is crucial for safeguarding children’s rights to health, safety, and education.
- Cultural Sensitivity: A postcolonial lens helps us respect and integrate diverse cultural perspectives into children’s rights frameworks.
- Empowering Girls: Addressing gender inequality is essential for ensuring that all children can enjoy their rights fully.
- Inclusive Democracy: Considering children’s voices in democratic processes can lead to more inclusive and fair societies.
- Right to Education: Ensuring access to quality education for all children is fundamental for their development and future opportunities.
Stakeholder Discussion
In both workshops, a very evident standpoint was that children’s rights are everyone’s responsibility. We had participants from varying backgrounds however all agreed that they and others have a role to fulfil to promote and protect children’s rights.
A striking point brought up during both workshops was the issue of open and safe spaces for children in Malta. The general consensus was that there is not enough space for families and where there are, it was argued that children and family orientated agencies and NGOs are not consulted on the way forward to make in a truly family friendly space.
MHREC look forward to its Public Talk and Closing Event taking place on 28th September. Register here to participate in the discussions.
This activity is part of the project “Strengthening Children’s Rights Advocacy through International Training”. Partly funded by the Government of Malta Social Causes Fund.
MHREC 
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