UNICEF Calls to Action: A Blue Sky for Every Child
SocietyUlaanbaatar, November 22, 2023 /MONTSAME/. World Children’s Day was first established in 1954 as Universal Children's Day and is celebrated on November 20 each year to promote international togetherness and awareness among children worldwide and to improve children's welfare.
November 20th is an important
date as it is the date when the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of
the Rights of the Child in 1959 and the Convention on the Rights of the Child
in 1989.
Every child from birth onwards has the inherent right to enjoy
all the rights and freedoms enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the
Child. This landmark international human rights treaty sets forth a
comprehensive framework for safeguarding the well-being of children and their
families. Since 2017, over 130 countries worldwide have joined the call of the
United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) to commemorate
World Children's Day. This day serves as a platform for children to speak out
about their concerns to adults and for adults to listen attentively and respond
with meaningful action. Across the globe, the Day is marked by high-profile
events and initiatives aimed at amplifying the voices of children.
As part of the celebration of World Children's Day, UNICEF in
Mongolia is drawing public attention to the problem of air pollution, which
poses a serious threat to the health of children in the country. Numerous
studies worldwide have demonstrated that children are at risk of exposure to
smog from the moment of conception. Mothers are at risk of premature birth and
miscarriage due to air pollution. A study conducted in Mongolia has shown that
the rate of premature births and miscarriages is five times higher in winter
than in summer. Additionally, the prevalence of flu and flu-like illnesses
increases sixfold during winter months. Bronchitis and Asthma are also common
among children in winter, which can hinder their learning and development. In
addition, international scientists have revealed that exposure to smog during
pregnancy can adversely impact the brain development of children, potentially
leading to mental and behavioral changes. On World Children's Day, UNICEF
underscored the critical role of collective action in safeguarding children's
health from the detrimental effects of air pollution.
The UNICEF in Mongolia offers a solution to combat air
pollution under the theme "For every child, Blue Sky." To that
extent, on November 18, 2023, UNICEF organized the first Fundraising Gala
event. The Event was attended by prominent figures from the Mongolian
political, business, arts, cultural, and sports communities. The funds, raised
through open auctions and other means will be spent on the implementation of
the Cooking Heating, Insulation Products (CHIP) package project. The project is
designed to replace coal stoves in Ger areas in Ulaanbaatar with
energy-saving electric heaters, install air exchange systems, and insulate Gers
with additional wind-water-resistant protective layers. The CHIP package is aimed
to improve indoor air quality, protect the health of mothers and children, and
provide warm and comfortable living conditions. Mongolian severe air pollution
contributes to the deaths of 300 people a year, predominantly children.
UNICEF Resident Representative in Mongolia Evariste Kouassi-Komlan: World Children's Day has been celebrated in Mongolia for the past two years. We have developed the Cooking Heating, Insulation Products (CHIP) package to combat air pollution. This package is specifically designed to effectively improve the exchange of indoor air, thereby mitigating the harmful effects of air pollution. The proceeds from the funds raised will be solely dedicated to this project.
Communications Specialist of UNICEF Mongolia Ariunzaya Davaa emphasized that UNICEF is organizing a fundraising event for the first time. “Public and private sectors are joining forces for the protection of children's rights. Artists and cultural and religious figures have generously donated their works to us. These works will be auctioned off to raise funds.”
There can be a number of solutions to protect children from air pollution, and UNICEF calls for at least one of these to be translated into reality.