Let Every Day Be Children’s Day
Today, November 20th, we observe World Children’s Day — a day that reminds us of the obligation of all of us, the community, institutions, and organizations, to protect, empower, and listen to children. This is not just a symbolic date; it is a call to action and an opportunity to highlight the challenges children face today, while also renewing our commitment to their future.
As a humanitarian organization, we work daily to ensure that children and youth in Bosnia and Herzegovina have the opportunity to learn, grow, and become active creators of their future. Today, we especially want to highlight the programs we implement and connect our work with the latest global data from UNICEF.
The World Picture of Childhood – Latest UNICEF Data
According to UNICEF’s latest report, “The State of the World’s Children 2025,” the world is facing a deep crisis of child poverty. Every day, 412 million children live in extreme poverty, on less than $3 a day.
UNICEF emphasizes that poverty is not just an economic term — it is a lack of access to education, healthcare, safety, clean water, and an environment that enables healthy development.
Crises worldwide further aggravate the situation: conflicts, climate change, and reduced investments in child protection systems. Today, 19% of children (around 473 million) are exposed to the effects of armed conflict, and 2024 was a record year for the number of grave violations of children’s rights — from attacks on schools to the forced recruitment of children.
Particularly concerning is the fact that around 150 million children under the age of five do not have their birth registered, making them “invisible” to protection, education, and health systems.
Why This Day is Important for Genesis Project
For us at Genesis Project, World Children’s Day is not just an opportunity for commemoration. It is a moment to remind ourselves of the purpose of all our activities — a mission reflected in the protection, education, and empowerment of children and youth.
We Develop Skills for the Future
Through the UPSHIFT program, we provide young people with tools for social innovation, enabling them to recognize challenges in their communities and create sustainable solutions. These workshops encourage creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving – key competencies for future leaders.
Mental Health of Children and Youth
The “Mind Matters” program focuses on workshops and psychosocial support that gives children space to express themselves, recognize their emotions, and learn how to cope with stress. Through interactive workshops, children learn how to recognize and express their emotions, develop empathy, and overcome stressful situations. Our activities are designed to provide a safe environment through play and creativity where children can freely share their experiences and feelings, building emotional resilience and self-confidence. Mental health is a crucial prerequisite for healthy development, especially during periods of uncertainty.
We inspire Creativity Through Art
Through programs like One-Minute Films and Interactive Puppet Shows, we provide children with platforms to express their ideas and perspectives. Whether through a 60-second short film or a dynamic puppet performance, these activities help young minds explore new horizons, build confidence, and share their stories with the world.
We Support Inclusion and Mutual Respect
Our approach through the Football3 methodology demonstrates how sport can teach key values such as gender equality, teamwork, and conflict resolution. This innovative way of playing transcends the sports field, transferring learned lessons into the participants’ daily lives.
Our projects also include educational programs, volunteer activities, digital inclusion, community development, and parental support. We believe that only through a comprehensive approach can we create an environment where children receive equal opportunities.
The Challenges Ahead — And Our Responsibility
UNICEF data clearly shows that:
- Child poverty transcends financial limits — it impacts health, education, and overall development.
- Children in crises need priority support for mental health, safety, and education.
- Systemic changes are possible only through the cooperation of organizations, institutions, and decision-makers.
That is why our work is both challenging and necessary.
Our Message for November 20th
On this World Children’s Day, Genesis Project sends the message:
- Children are the present, not just the future.
- Their voice must be heard and respected.
- Only through joint action can we ensure their rights are fully honored.
- Every day should be Children’s Day — in the family, school, and society.
Thank you to all partners, schools, donors, and local communities who support us in our mission to provide children with a safer, fairer, and more inspiring childhood.
Happy World Children’s Day from the entire team at Genesis Project!