Today marks World Children’s Day, when the United Nations adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959. It is also the date in 1989 when the UN General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The MCB stands in solidarity with the rights for every child worldwide, advocating for their rights and protection. Tragically, in Palestine, these fundamental rights are being denied as the Israeli bombardment continues to claim innocent lives, leaving families shattered and communities in despair.
MCB Secretary-General, Zara Mohammed said:
“Sadly, at this time our hearts are heavy as we witness the devastating situation in Gaza, where a staggering 5,500 children have been killed over the last few weeks, that is one child killed every 10 minutes.
The Israeli government must now end its indiscriminate killing of innocent civilians, bombing of hospitals and schools. The siege on Gaza must end, the collective punishment in which so many children have been killed, must cease.
All children deserve a safe environment where they can grow, learn, and thrive without fear. The rights of children cannot be achieved unless the world seeks to protect them even in times of conflict. We urge our government to call for a ceasefire now to save the lives of innocent civilians and to ensure a the rights of every child are protected.”
[ENDS]
Notes to editors:
- For any media enquiries, contact: media@mcb.org.uk
- The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) is the UK’s largest and most diverse Muslim umbrella organisation with membership spanning national, regional local organisations, mosques, charities and professional networks. It is independent, cross-sectarian and democratic with the leadership team accountable to the membership.