The Vatican hosted an international summit on children's rights, gathering leaders from various sectors to address pressing issues affecting children worldwide. Cardinal Pietro Parolin emphasized the urgency of safeguarding children from hunger, war, violence, inequality, and environmental destruction.
The Vatican Museums hosted the opening evening of the International Summit on Children's Rights , held in the Vatican . The Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin , welcomed international leaders and other participants in the event. Cardinal Parolin described the summit as a moment of “reflection” and “reciprocal listening.
” Divided into two sessions, the event includes an opening address and closing remarks by Pope Francis, along with seven panel discussions featuring fifty speakers. Cardinal Parolin said that these two actions are not merely recommendations but a “categorical imperative that should command universal agreement and inspire concrete and collective action.”History has consistently shown that children are among the most vulnerable members of society. Despite the advances of modern communication, today’s world remains plagued by a lack of love and protection for its youngest members. Cardinal Parolin noted, lamenting the tragic reality of wars that claim thousands of young and defenceless lives and the ongoing humanitarian crises at sea, where migrants - including many children - face peril and death.Referencing the Gospel, the cardinal recalled that Jesus called upon his disciples to preserve the purity of a child’s gaze and warned against causing them harm. The Church remains steadfast in its mission to defend and uphold children's rights, even as it acknowledges its own shortcomings, he said, reiterating the importance of listening to experts in social, psychological, and pedagogical sciences, as well as international organizations and field workers. He also highlighted the value of interfaith dialogue, expressing gratitude for the presence of representatives from the Jewish and Muslim communities, including Rabbi David Rosen and Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb of Al-Azhar.Looking ahead to the Second World Day of Children, scheduled for September 2026 following the inaugural celebration in May 2024, Cardinal Parolin urged the world to heed the voices of children - particularly their rejection of hunger, inequality, violence, war, and environmental destruction. He appealed for action to address key issues affecting children, including access to resources, education, nutrition, healthcare, family, and leisure. “Every child has the right to play in peace and freedom,” the Cardinal affirmed.While the challenges are vast, Cardinal Parolin noted that the most important step is to begin to initiate processes that can yield positive and lasting change. He encouraged all those involved to move forward with confidence and determination, united by the ultimate goal: ensuring that all children are welcomed, loved, and protected
Human Rights Children's Rights Vatican Summit Cardinal Pietro Parolin Pope Francis International Leaders Humanitarian Crises Environmental Destruction Social Justice
Malaysia Latest News, Malaysia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Vatican Calls for Ceasefire in Middle East, Hopes for Peace and StabilityCardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, met with papal representatives from Middle Eastern nations in Amman, Jordan. The meeting emphasized a desire for a ceasefire across the region and expressed hope for peace and stability in the Middle East, particularly in Syria and Lebanon.
Read more »
Vatican Calls for Ethical Development of Artificial IntelligenceA new document from the Vatican Dicasteries for the Doctrine of the Faith and Culture and Education emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations in the development and deployment of artificial intelligence.
Read more »
Putin Calls for Trump Summit to Discuss Ukraine and EnergyRussian President Vladimir Putin expressed his desire for a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump to address the ongoing war in Ukraine and global energy prices. Putin emphasized the need for constructive dialogue and highlighted Trump's pragmatic approach. However, he stated that serious peace talks with Ukraine are contingent on President Volodymyr Zelenskiy rescinding a decree prohibiting negotiations with Putin.
Read more »
Pope Francis Urges End to Attacks on Civilians, Calls for Global PeacePope Francis issued a strong plea for an end to attacks on civilians during the Angelus on the first Sunday of 2025, urging the international community to act 'with firmness to ensure that humanitarian law is respected'. He also appealed for continued prayers for peace throughout the world.
Read more »
Pope Calls for Global Peace Amidst Ongoing ConflictsPope Francis renewed his plea for peace, urging warring nations to cease attacks on civilians and schools, hospitals, and workplaces. He highlighted the devastating consequences of war and called for international action to uphold humanitarian law in conflict zones.
Read more »
Pope Francis Calls for Global Action to Protect Children from Abuse and ExploitationDuring his weekly General Audience, Pope Francis continued his catechesis on children, emphasizing the urgent need to defend and promote their well-being. He condemned the exploitation and abuse of children worldwide, urging individuals and societies to take concrete action against this grave injustice.
Read more »