The fulfillment of children’s rights is a prerequisite to meeting the SDGs, and the SDGs are important drivers for the protection, respect and fulfillment of children’s rights under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). The 2030 Agenda recognises children as ‘agents of change’ and emphasizes the importance of their right to participate in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) implementation and accountability processes. Children’s participation is hence critical for the successful implementation of the 2030 Agenda and for achieving sustainable development for all. Furthermore, the SDG monitoring and review processes at the national, regional and global levels provide States and civil society with a crucial opportunity to drive accountability for children and to ensure that their voices are included in policy decisions.

During this virtual event, you will hear from Member State Champions, civil society, and children themselves why it is necessary to include children across diverse backgrounds in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as well as the opportunities presented for children’s participation and engagement in the SDG Follow-up and Review process. Children from Ethiopia and El Salvador will share their experiences in engaging in the 2022 VNR process in their respective countries, while Government representatives from Sweden and Zambia (TBC) will share reflections and lessons learned from engaging children in the development of prior year VNRs. You will also hear about the How To Child Rights series, its platform, and how you can get involved.