With the theme “One ASEAN, One Vision for Children”, the 4^th ASEAN Children Forum (ACF) was held in Hanoi from 20 to 23 June. The Forum was attended by Deputy Secretary General of ASEAN  Vongthep Arthakaivalvatee, Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs of Vietnam Dao Ngoc Dung, senior officials in charge of social welfares and development from ASEAN member countries and 35 children at the age of 12 to 18 from 9 ASEAN countries (except Brunei). 

Illustration photo (Source: Vietnamplus)

During the Forum, the children could discuss and expressed their opinions on children protection in internet environment, anti-violence on children, and impact of climate change on children. On 22 June, the children had a dialogue with representative leaders of ministries and agencies of Vietnam and ASEAN. The Joint Statement on recommendations of ASEAN children was also released at this Forum.

In the context of a newly-established ASEAN Community, ASEAN Children Forum of this year is a significant event for ASEAN children particularly and ASEAN Community generally. This Forum contributed to building a friendly ASEAN Community which is close to children in the region, fostering participation of children, hearing from children and enforcing ASEAN children’s rights.

Since 2010, Children Forum has been organized every two years and in turn in ASEAN member countries. This is one of key responsibilities of ASEAN member states under social welfares and development program.

Hong Nhung (collected)