Prioritise peace for children’s wellbeing - SOS student appeals to political parties

A final year Junior High School (JHS) student of the SOS Gmeiner School, Alayedze Aidoo, has appealed to stakeholders in the political sphere to ensure their actions before, during and after the December general election this year, are geared towards safeguarding the nation’s peace and security for the sake of the younger generation. 

She said even though elections were an important part of democracy, they could also bring tension and unrest; and unlike adults who may know how to navigate such moments, children were often the most vulnerable.

“We see and hear everything happening around us, and it can be scary when there are arguments, conflicts or violence in our communities. 

“We want to remind everyone, especially our leaders, that we the children need a safe environment to grow up in. We need peace, not just during elections, but every day.

“Our mental well-being matters. Our voices matter. We may be young, but we have a role to play in peacebuilding,” Ms Aidoo said. 

Event

Ms Aidoo was speaking at the launch of the "Stomping for Peace" campaign by SOS Children’s Villages, which is focused on supporting underprivileged children and those without parental care.

The campaign, which was launched in Accra yesterday, is aimed at amplifying the voices of children across the country and beyond, particularly those growing up in the midst of conflicts and instability.

It would also ensure that every child has the opportunity to live in an environment free of violence, grow up safely and thrive emotionally and physically.

Appeal

Ms Aidoo also called on the Electoral Commission (EC), political parties and the security forces to uphold the highest standards of transparency and integrity, by ensuring that the electoral process and campaigns reflects the messages of unity, tolerance and non-violence, making no child feel unsafe in their home or community during the period.

“To the media, we appeal for responsible and ethical reporting during this period. Avoid sensationalism that may incite unrest, and instead promote messages of peace and national unity.

We ask you to spread messages of hope and truth, not fear or anger,” she added.

Ms Aidoo further entreated the National Peace Council (NPC) and religious leaders to use their influential platforms to preach peace and harmony, and also ensure that their congregations remain calm during the electioneering.

“To my fellow children and youth, we are the heart of the "Stomping for Peace" campaign. Let us continue raising our voices for peace, reminding the world of the importance of a safe and harmonious environment where every child can grow and thrive,” she added. 

Concerns

The National Child and Youth Safeguarding Advisor of the organisation, Josiah Bernard Nartey, also expressed concern over the increasing number of children living in conflict zones, including those who had been forcibly displaced.  

“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that children’s rights are not only written in words, but are translated into meaningful action.

“This campaign serves as a rallying cry calling for attention to children’s needs, including peace, mental well-being and a stable environment in which they can flourish,” he added.