Speaking on World Children’s Day and the 35th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, Kathleen Funchion MEP called on the EU to do more for children across its Member States.

Adopted in 1989, the Convention was the first treaty to recognise children as individuals with their own rights. Ratified by 197 countries, it has established global standards to protect and support children, but more action is needed to fully uphold these rights within the EU.

MEP Funchion said:

“As a single mother of two young sons and a public representative, I understand the challenges children and young people face today.

“Our children are the future, and their experiences hold immense power. One of the most important ways the European Parliament can support them is by listening. Children are the experts on their own lives, and it is our duty to hear their voices.

“As a former chairperson of the joint Oireachtas Committee on Children, Disability, Equality, Integration and Youth, and now a member of the European Parliament’s Intergroup on Children’s Rights, I am committed to ensuring children’s rights are at the core of EU policymaking.

“I will work tirelessly with the coordinator for children’s rights to mainstream their needs across all legislation. We need to tackle pressing issues like child poverty, child sexual abuse and protect children online.

“My work at a European level will continue to champion the need for a dedicated Children’s Committee in the European Parliament, which would provide a vital platform to address children’s issues and ensure their voices shape our decisions as policymakers.

“I remain an unapologetic advocate for children, working to create a fairer and more inclusive Europe.”