#Japan #Tokyo #Child Fund Japan #EVAC Japan Forum #Najat Maalla M'jid

Symposium on Ending Violence Against Children

On May 21, 2025, the EVAC Japan Forum, affiliated with the Child Fund Japan, will host a unique symposium titled "Let's Take Action Now to End Violence Against Children" at the United Nations University Reception Hall in Tokyo from 2 PM to 5 PM. This event aims to bring together experts from both domestic and international backgrounds to discuss the alarming rise in child abuse cases in Japan and around the globe.

A Critical Issue

Every year, approximately one in four children worldwide suffers from violence, and the statistics reveal a grave reality: over 1 billion children experience physical, sexual, or psychological violence. The symposium aims to address these pressing issues and help create a society where every child can live in hope and safety.

Aimed particularly at young people, survivors, and stakeholders from civil society, academia, international organizations, and government agencies, the event highlights the urgent need for collaborative action to end child abuse. Participants are encouraged to register in advance, as space is limited to 100 attendees.

Keynote Speech from UN Expert

The symposium will feature a significant keynote address by Najat Maalla M'jid, the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, who has dedicated her life to promoting and protecting children's rights. M'jid has a wealth of experience in child protection, having previously served as a pediatrician and worked extensively with NGOs focused on social rehabilitation for children in need.

Following the keynote, there will be a panel discussion involving experts including:

• - Shigenori Nakahara, Director of Comprehensive Policy at the Children's Agency
• - Hiroaki Ochiai, Deputy Director of Safety Measures at the Children's Agency
• - Fujiko Yamada, member of the Japan Society for the Prevention of Child Abuse
• - Katsuhiko Takeda, Secretary-General of Child Fund Japan
• - Keiko Saito from ECPAT
• - Machiko Kaida from the International Children's Rights Center
• - Tetsuko Shibata from World Vision Japan

The discussion will be moderated by Yoko Ohno from Save the Children Japan.

The Global Context

The urgency of this symposium follows the historic Global Ministerial Conference to End Violence Against Children that was held in November 2024 in Bogotá, Colombia. An incredible 1,400 participants, including representatives from over 130 countries, gathered to discuss the elimination of violence against children. During this event, the "Bogotá Call to Action" was issued, pledging to accelerate efforts to eradicate violence against children worldwide.

With Najat Maalla M'jid's presence in Japan, we anticipate the same fervor and determination from the symposium attendees to make tangible changes. This symposium represents an essential opportunity for community members and governmental representatives to join forces in tackling the pervasive issue of child abuse.

Importance of the EVAC Japan Forum

Since its establishment in 2017, the EVAC Japan Forum has been actively engaging in advocacy to support SDG Target 16.2, which calls for the elimination of violence against children. The forum consists of a coalition of civil society organizations dedicated to ending violence against children in Japan and globally, united in their goal to create a safe environment for all children. The collaboration among these organizations exemplifies a comprehensive strategy to foster awareness and instigate policy changes concerning child protection.

The Child Fund Japan has been a significant player in this movement since its inception in 1975, helping children live free from poverty in Asia and contributing to the protection of children's rights through various initiatives. Together with the EVAC Japan Forum, they emphasize the urgency and importance of action in the fight against child abuse.

Conclusion

This symposium is not just another event; it is a call for immediate action to end the suffering of countless children. By bringing together leading voices in child protection, it aims to inspire a movement that can ultimately end violence against children in Japan and beyond. Join the discussion on May 21st, and help make a difference in the lives of children everywhere.