Leaving No Child Behind: From Promise to Progress

The high-level event, co-organized by World Childhood Foundation, the Permanent Mission of Sweden to the United Nations, and the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence against Children, brought together survivor-led initiatives, grassroots organizations, international agencies, and Member States to advance collective action that protects children, amplifies their voices, and ensures that no child is left behind.

Her Royal Highness Princess Madeleine of Sweden, Vice Honorary Chair of World Childhood Foundation, attended the meeting, reaffirming her longstanding commitment to safeguarding children from sexual abuse and exploitation.

Building on the momentum of the Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence against Children, held in Bogotá, Colombia, in November 2024—the first-ever of its kind—participants reflected on progress made for children through global cooperation and partnership. They also acknowledged the urgent need to confront the mounting threats facing children worldwide due to conflict, displacement, climate change, food insecurity, and social exclusion.

Speakers highlighted the urgent need to translate global commitments into measurable progress for children, stressing that sustained partnerships, data-driven action, and survivor-centered approaches are key to ending violence in all its forms.

Najat Maalla M’jid, Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence against Children:

 “Ending violence against children can’t wait anymore. Too many children are paying a huge price. Their suffering is the face of our collective failure. So, let’s act now, together, for and with children!”

Paula Guillet de Monthoux, Secretary-General, World Childhood Foundation:

“Conflicts, displacement, a harsh shift in narrative, and shrinking aid budgets have stretched families and systems to a breaking point. But this is precisely why we gather here today. We cannot wait. Moments like this test whether "leave no child behind" is a slogan or actual practice.”

Ambassador Nicola Clase, Permanent Representative of Sweden to the United Nations:

“Upholding children’s rights and dignity has long been a key priority for Sweden. By working together, we can build societies where every child is safe, valued, and free from harm.”

As the world faces multiple and intersecting crises, participants reaffirmed that protecting children from violence is essential to realizing the vision of the Sustainable Development Goals—a world where every child can grow up safe, respected, and free from harm.

Together, participants called for renewed investment, stronger partnerships, and concrete action to scale up proven solutions—so that every child can live free from violence.

Access the event on UN TV here: https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1w/k1w4y1xhm6

Media Contacts World Childhood Foundation:
Charles Mingo Bennström
charles.bennstrom@childhood.org, +46 (0)73-422 04 42