International Conference, UNICEF Portugal
“Childhood between borders and challenges: witch way to go”
October 19th, 9h00 – 13h00
Centro Cultural de Belém, Lisbon

This conference marks the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child in Portugal, and aims to provide a platform for reflection, dialogue, and commitment on the future of children's rights in a changing world.

Specialists, decision-makers, academics, civil society representatives, and young people will gather to discuss pressing global issues affecting children, such as migration, social exclusion, poverty, climate change, digital transformation, and child participation in public life.

Prominent international speakers confirmed include Benjamin Perks, UNICEF’s Head of Advocacy for Child Development and Protection and author of "Trauma Proof: Healing, Attachment and the Science of Prevention," and Bertrand Bainvel, UNICEF Representative to the European Union Institutions and Director of UNICEF’s Partnership Office in Brussels. They will present global insights on safeguarding children's dignity, security, and wellbeing.

The event will feature opening speeches from UNICEF Portugal leaders and national authorities, followed by panel discussions and roundtables. Testimonies from young activists and presentations of innovative projects in Portugal and abroad will showcase effective responses and best practices.

Panel discussions will encourage participant engagement and debate, culminating in recommendations to strengthen public policies and collaborative networks to protect children’s rights comprehensively.
Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, the conference will address how to ensure no child is left behind amid evolving social, economic, and environmental realities. The agenda emphasizes practical action, sustainability, and the importance of child participation in policymaking.

Participation is free but requires prior registration at www.unicef.pt