The widespread ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child underlines the importance that we all attach to the welfare and human rights of children. This almost universal commitment, achieved in the twelve year history of the Convention, is remarkable. In attempting to realise the potential, and the aspirations, of our children and young people in a globalising world, the Convention continues to guide us both in ensuring they reap the benefits of globalisation, as well being protected from its more harmful impacts. Despite the good intentions of the international community, the plight of many children in the world is still one of grave concern. Countless children remain in poverty, without adequate access to basic food, health, education and other fundamental necessities.
Children continue to die every day from entirely preventable diseases.
Many children are struggling in war zones and other areas of conflict. Children are too often subjected to economic and other forms of exploitation. Violence and sexual abuse of children continues to be a major problem. We urge all states to fully implement their obligations under this Convention and we call on those states which have not yet ratified, to do so as soon as possible. For New Zealand s part, we submitted our second report to the Committee in December 2000.