2024-11-20 06:12:00
On the occasion of International Children’s Rights Day on November 20th, Petra Bayr, spokesperson for foreign policy and global development for the SPÖ, draws attention to the suffering of children in Ukraine. “The abduction of 20,000 Ukrainian children to Russia or within the occupied territories is a crime. Those responsible must be held accountable and the children – where possible – returned to their families,” Bayr emphatically demands. ****
According to UNICEF, at least 2,406 children and young people have been killed or injured since the Russian war of aggression began around 1,000 days ago. That equates to a staggering average of 16 underage victims per week. “Behind every number there is a child, a destroyed life, a grieving family. “Children trust adults to guarantee them safety and compliance with their rights; they depend on us,” warns Bayr and emphasizes: “Let’s take this task seriously.”
In Europe, nine out of ten people who have fled Ukraine are women and children. This particularly vulnerable group faces not only the immediate dangers of war, but also an increased risk of exploitation and human trafficking.
“I call for compliance with international humanitarian law, especially the protection of children and the infrastructure critical to their survival, such as schools, hospitals and care facilities. Explosive weapons in populated areas and all attacks against children must be documented and punished. This war not only destroys lives, but also the future of those who could be the backbone of Ukraine’s reconstruction,” emphasizes Bayr.
“Children’s rights are universal and non-negotiable. They must not be sacrificed to the interests of the aggressor. Your rights must take precedence over political conflicts,” emphasizes Bayr. “On International Children’s Rights Day, I call on the global community to give children back their voice and their rights. The number of victims is not just a humanitarian tragedy, but a wake-up call for more determination in protecting children, their physical and psychological integrity and for child-friendly humanitarian aid on site.” (Conclusion) ls
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How can international organizations and individuals effectively contribute to the protection of children’s rights in conflict zones like Ukraine?
**Interview with Petra Bayr on International Children’s Rights Day and the Crisis in Ukraine**
**Interviewer:** Good morning, Petra Bayr. Thank you for joining us today on this important occasion. As the spokesperson for foreign policy and global development for the SPÖ, you have recently highlighted the plight of children in Ukraine. Can you tell us more about what you are seeing on the ground?
**Petra Bayr:** Good morning, and thank you for having me. The situation for children in Ukraine is dire. On this International Children’s Rights Day, it is essential to bring attention to the abduction of approximately 20,000 Ukrainian children, who have been taken to Russia or relocated within the occupied territories. This is a grave violation of their rights and a humanitarian crisis that demands our immediate attention.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the abduction of children in your statement. What actions do you believe should be taken to address this issue?
**Petra Bayr:** First and foremost, those responsible for these abductions must be held accountable. We need robust international pressure to ensure these children are returned to their families whenever possible. Additionally, it is crucial for nations and organizations to work together to create legal frameworks that protect children’s rights in conflict zones.
**Interviewer:** UNICEF has reported that at least 2,406 children and young people have been killed or injured since the start of the war nearly 1,000 days ago. What does this statistic mean for the future of Ukrainian society?
**Petra Bayr:** This statistic is heartbreaking and illustrates the immense toll this conflict has taken on the younger generation. A whole generation of children is growing up amidst violence, trauma, and displacement, which can have long-lasting effects on their mental health and the fabric of society. If we do not act swiftly and decisively, we risk facing a future where these children carry the scars of conflict into adulthood.
**Interviewer:** What can individuals around the world do to help support the children affected by this crisis?
**Petra Bayr:** Individuals can support humanitarian organizations that are working directly with affected children and families. Raising awareness about their plight and advocating for their rights within your own communities can also make a difference. It is vital that we stand together to demand accountability and support efforts to protect these vulnerable children.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Petra, for your insights and for raising awareness about such a critical issue. We hope to see positive change for the children of Ukraine soon.
**Petra Bayr:** Thank you for the opportunity to share this message. Let’s continue to advocate for the rights of children everywhere.