HRC58 - NB8 statement - Annual Discussion on the Rights of the Child
Human Rights Council - 58th Session
Annual Discussion on the Rights of the Child (7/29 and 55/29)
Early Childhood Development
Statement by Lithuania on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states
13 March 2024
Thank you, Mr. President,
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States.
The early years of life are critical for a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development. Ensuring access to healthcare, nutrition, early education, and protection from violence for children is essential for fostering resilient and inclusive societies.
However, we cannot ignore that for too many children, early childhood is marked not by security and care, but by multiple barriers to their development, including poverty, lack of access to essential services, displacement and armed conflict.
Children in fragile settings are at higher risk of disrupted care, inadequate learning opportunities, and exposure to violence, all of which have lasting consequences on their development. Attacks on education and healthcare institutions, as well as forced displacement and unlawful deportations, militarization, further undermine their rights and well-being. Strengthening protection frameworks and ensuring accountability for violations against children remain essential to upholding their rights and safeguarding their future.
Every child deserves to grow up safe, healthy, and supported. This requires strong child protection systems, better access to essential services, and meaningful international cooperation. We support efforts to enhance child participation, digital safety, and integrated protection measures to ensure that no child is left behind. By working together, we can create conditions for all children to reach their full potential from the very start.
Thank you.
