Kathmandu, November 19

Save the Children today expressed grave concern, saying children are being denied their right to education, protection and health.

On the eve of the 26th United Nations Child Rights Convention Day, Save the Children made a sincere appeal to all stakeholders and duty bearers to put children first and take decisions and actions that are in their best interests to make UNCRC, and the government’s commitment as a signatory to the convention, meaningful for children in Nepal.

Issuing a statement here today Delailah Borja, country director of Save the Children, Nepal, said, “It is very clear to all that children are not being protected from events that are preventing them from going to school without fear. Save the Children firmly believes that barriers to health services and education will create negative impacts on the overall development of children.”

Save the Children condemned children being put on the frontlines of political activities and protests and urged civil society, political establishments and the state to create an environment for all children to go to school without fear, reads the statement.

The statement further said that in a bid to reach out to children and their families, especially those affected by the earthquake, Save the Children has tried to intensify its humanitarian response for the winter.

“But with supplies at only around 10 per cent of the normal flow, Save the Children is unable to deliver winterisation supplies to many households in quake hit districts,” it said, adding, “These households now face winter without permanent shelter, lack adequate clothing to withstand freezing temperatures, and also lack fuel for cooking.”

Borja said, “Aid agencies are having to curtail their operations with serious questions being raised on the adherence to humanitarian principles, including the right to receive and give humanitarian assistance.”