On International Children’s Day the Government Launches National Action Plan for Children
Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and
Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste
Dili, June 2nd, 2017
On International Children’s Day the Government Launches National Action Plan for Children
On the 1st of June 2017, amongst celebrations for International Children’s Day, the Government has launched its National Action Plan for Children 2016-2020.
Prime Minister, H.E. Dr. Rui Maria de Araújo, said that the plan “reflects the willingness of the Government of Timor-Leste to build an environment that promotes respect, protection and fulfillment of the rights of boys and girls in our country, particularly those who live in challenging situations and in remote and rural areas.”
The Action Plan, developed during the mandate of the Sixth Constitutional Government, set out steps to ensure that children develop in a healthy environment, with access to school and a quality education, good health and nutrition, opportunities for participation and the protection of their rights.
Under the leadership of the National Commission on the Rights of the Child, the plan was developed by the Government in consultation with nongovernment organizations, civil society and other community organizations, with the support of UNICEF. It was submitted to the Council of Ministers in September 2016 and subsequently a resolution to implement the plan was approved in January this year.
During its mandate the Government has also worked to improve the legislative environment for children. In February this year the Draft Law on Child Protection, regulating the promotion of children’s rights and the protection of children at risk and in danger, was approved by the Council of Ministers.
The Prime Minister noted at the launch of the plan that for it to succeed we must “ensure that we have adequate funding and human resources for children's issues in the various ministries and also support the role of a focal point for the coordination and monitoring of the implementation of the National Action Plan for Children 2016-2020.”
Spokesperson, Minister of State Agio Pereira, said “In launching this plan the Government has delivered on another of its goals and signaled the value it places on children and young people. They are the future of our nation! To protect them and invest in their well being is to invest in the success and development of Timor-Leste.” ENDS
