#Dominican Republic #Santo Domingo #Just Rights for Children #Bhuwan Ribhu #Child Marriage

Bhuwan Ribhu: A Champion for Children's Rights

Honored for Advocacy

Bhuwan Ribhu, the esteemed founder of Just Rights for Children (JRC), has made headlines this week after receiving the prestigious Medal of Honour from the World Jurist Association (WJA) during the World Law Congress held in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. This highly acclaimed event took place from May 4 to 6 and gathered over 1,500 jurists and 300 speakers from more than 70 countries. Ribhu's recognition stems from his relentless fight against child marriage and child trafficking, two paramount issues affecting millions of lives globally.

About Bhuwan Ribhu

For over two decades, Ribhu has dedicated himself to championing the rights of children through various avenues, including legal intervention and grassroots activism. His work has significantly contributed to legal reforms designed to protect children from the scourge of child marriage, human trafficking, and other forms of exploitation. His organizations' impactful initiatives have not only brought attention to these critical issues but have also resulted in tangible change.

In his acceptance speech, Ribhu emphasized the importance of justice for children, stating, "Children should never have to fight for justice alone. The law must be their shield, and justice must be their right." His words resonate deeply in today's society where many children remain vulnerable and unprotected against exploitation.

The World Jurist Association's Recognition

The WJA, founded in 1963, has a long legacy of recognizing individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the field of law and justice. Lasting figures such as Nelson Mandela and Ruth Bader Ginsburg have received this honor in the past, making Ribhu’s achievement particularly noteworthy. According to Javier Cremades, the President of WJA, Ribhu’s lifetime commitment to these causes exemplifies the essence of democratic values and justice.

Cremades remarked, "His efforts have saved hundreds of thousands of children and women and set legal frameworks that will protect generations to come." This acknowledgment not only honors Ribhu but also sheds light on the extensive work done by the Just Rights for Children network, which comprises over 250 partner organizations working across various regions including India, Nepal, Kenya, and the United States.

The Impact of Just Rights for Children

Under Ribhu's leadership, JRC has spearheaded initiatives that have proven successful in combating child exploitation. Since April 2023, their efforts have yielded astonishing results:

• - Over 85,000 children rescued from trafficking
• - Over 300,000 child marriages prevented
• - More than 34,000 survivors of child sexual abuse supported with legal and psychosocial help
• - Over 54,000 cases filed against child traffickers

These statistics extend beyond numbers; they symbolize lives restored, futures rebuilt, and a collective commitment to standing up for children's rights. Ribhu remarked, "These numbers are not just statistics—they are lives saved, futures restored, and a resolve to stand up for our children."

Conclusion

Bhuwan Ribhu’s recognition at the World Law Congress represents a significant victory not only for him personally but also for the countless children who benefit from his advocacy. His tireless questioning of injustice and his commitment to shaping a safer world have resonated strong messages in the global fight for children's rights. As more individuals join the cause, the collective impact can foster enduring change, and with continued support, there is hope that child marriage and trafficking will soon become issues of the past. With leaders like Ribhu at the forefront, the future holds the promise of enhanced protection and advocacy for every child's right to a safe and just life.