Each of us can make a difference. The GMC focuses on all the rights of every child - not just rich or poor, toddler or adolescent, girl or boy, black or white, in the 'north' or 'south', 'east' or 'west', or any of the myriad classes in which we unhesitatingly, sometimes arbitrarily, place ourselves and others. This is a powerful focus, for differences masked by averages become unmasked. Further, the rights of children in Papua New Guinea or St. Lucia are as sacrosanct, on the global stage, as those of children in Egypt or Indonesia. Perhaps the most distinguishing mark of the Movement is the attention and support given to the participation of children in promoting their development and well-being.
Participation is particularly important for adolescents.
This feature is firmly grounded in an understanding and appreciation of the nature of child development - that children are able to think and feel and reason progressively. The fact that child participation is a guiding principle of the Convention of the Rights of the Child should not be used as an obstacle by those with agendas not focused on children's well-being, for the Convention recognizes that participation is progressive, supports the family and community, and promotes the best interest of the child. Finally, the GMC provides a foundation and a framework to help us focus our effort and resources in a coherent and cohesive manner. It does so by identifying ten, note well, priority actions without which progress for children will be severely compromised, perhaps impossible. History, experience, research and reflection attest to this.