Third Committee
Agenda item 67: Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Children
Statement by: H.E. Jeem S. Lippwe
Permanent Representative
New York, 14 October 2024
Chair,
Today’s Third Committee discussion focuses on a topic that is all too relevant to Micronesia.
In Micronesia, children below the age of 18 years make up approximately 51% of our population. As such, Micronesia’s acceded in1993 to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and its two Optional Protocols and other international frameworks given major and important relevance to my country. We take our international obligations seriously and responsibly, and we remain deeply concerned with the critical situation of children in our own country and in many parts of the world.
Chair,
The scattered nature of the Micronesian islands spanning over more than 3 million square kilometers of the North Pacific, and with our limited resources, children in Micronesia face unique challenges. The expansive spread of communities across our four island states, often contribute to difference between education system and outcomes among our states can be significant reflecting varied languages, values, socio-cultural attributes and economic conditions. The migration outflow our the Micronesian population further exacerbates this problem as moving to a new location can mean changing schools, adjusting to new environments and even economic hardships that hinder their learning. Ensuring our children’s well-being and development requires a concerted effort from both local authorities and the assistance of our major partners. Addressing this issue is crucial for the future of Micronesia.
Chair,
We recognize that education is a driver of poverty reduction, peaceful and inclusive societies and economic growth. In this context, we continue to implement consistent and sustainable policies on education and health, including the provision of free and universal access to primary and secondary education. Education is compulsory for all children from the ages of 6 to 14.
Access to quality education is a fundamental right for every child. In Micronesia, efforts are being made to improve educational infrastructure and provide training for teachers. However, there is still a shortage of qualified educators, with migration of our citizen for better opportunities abroad as one contributing factor.
Chair,
Children’s health and nutrition are vital for their growth and development. Micronesia faces challenges in providing comprehensive healthcare services to all children, especially those in remote areas.
We face challenges in recruiting specialized professionals in healthcare, education, and related sectors. There are obstacles in providing services tailored to children and those with disabilities. Early teen pregnancy, societal stigma, and the need for early intervention services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other disabilities are also significant concerns.
The lingering effects of COVID 19 are keenly felt by our children and are evident in healthcare, education, and social activities. Collaborating with partners is essential to ensuring the protection of children’s rights and well-being during global crises.
In partnership with the UN system and donor partners, we are working to provide access to clean water and reliable sanitation for children to ensure basic hygiene practices to keep children safe from infectious diseases. Water pumps and sanitation facilities are installed for children and specifically for girls to ensure that their basic menstrual hygiene needs are met so they don’t miss out in schools.
In 2024, we launched the Early Childhood Development Policy, which aims to ensure that children up to 8 years old reach their full potential in safe, caring environments. The Policy focuses on cooperation between governments, a cross-sectoral approach, transparency, and promoting the rights of young children for their development and sustainability.
We are currently in the process of planning for the development of a National Child Protection Policy.
Chair
As an island nation, the overarching threat to the future of Micronesian children lies in global warming. Rising sea-levels, tidal waves, the degradation of our marine environment are just some of the problems islanders encounter, and our next generation faces an increasingly uncertain future.
Chair,
Children in Micronesia are the custodians of their rich cultural heritage. Preserving and promoting traditional knowledge, practices, and languages is essential for maintaining their cultural identity. Encouraging community participation and fostering a sense of pride in their heritage will help children grow up with a strong sense of belonging and purpose.
Addressing the challenges faced by children in Micronesia requires collaboration and support from the international community. Financial assistance, technical expertise, and capacity-building initiatives are needed to improve the lives of Micronesian children. We must work together with our development partners and international organizations to ensure that children in Micronesia have the opportunities and resources they need to thrive.
Thank you.
