site.btaWorld's Hope Rests with Children, But That Hope Is Facing Serious Challenges - UNICEF Representative in Bulgaria

Attending an event marking the 80th anniversary of UNICEF here on Monday, UNICEF Representative in Bulgaria Christina de Bruin said that the world’s hope still rests with children, but that hope is facing serious challenges - from conflicts and forced displacement to the climate crisis, growing inequalities, the digital divide, and issues affecting mental health and well-being. The event was held at the Sts Cyril and Methodius National Library under the auspices of President Iliana Iotova. 

"Millions of children globally are navigating an increasingly uncertain and unequal world. UNICEF's 80th anniversary is therefore a moment to recommit ourselves, to recommit ourselves to strengthen our resolve to defend every right and to ensure that every child can thrive, because the future of every child is the future of us all," she said. 

"From the ashes of World War II in 1946, to global challenges, to the global challenges that affect millions of children today, our mandate has never wavered. UNICEF works together with partners to protect the rights of every child, wherever they are, wherever they live," the UNICEF Representative in Bulgaria added. 

UNICEF has been working in Bulgaria since 1946, supporting children and families, with its role evolving over time, she said. "Twenty years ago, the establishment of the country office further strengthened the partnership with national institutions. Bulgaria was amongst the first countries, globally, to ratify the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1991, and Bulgaria remains a key global partner," Christina de Bruin added. Over the years, Bulgaria has made significant progress for children, and it has been a true honour for UNICEF to partner and to work closely alongside the country in advancing the rights and well-being of children, she said. 

"Today, above all, we celebrate people. We celebrate all of you, the many individuals and institutions whose commitment makes our mission for children possible," she said.