HM The Queen's opening speech at the conference 10th International Consultation of Child Helplines

I am honoured to welcome you to the 10th International Consultation of Child Helplines. As I share the commitment to the rights of the child with all of you gathered here, I am happy to inaugurate this important conference.

Over the years, I have had the opportunity to initiate several organizations working to promote the rights of children. Whether it is for protecting children from violence and sexual abuse, empowering their health or helping businesses integrate a child right’s perspective into their operations.

Ladies and gentlemen: Civil society plays a crucial role in supporting and helping children. Globally, child Helplines, run by both civil society and governments, are a vital part of this important work, making sure that children’s voices are being heard.

Children are a particularly vulnerable group. Since the outburst of the covid-19-pandemic, social distancing, school closures, lock downs and other fundamental changes in society have had a significant impact on children’s lives. Mental health and violence are still the two main reasons for children contacting Child Helplines globally.

Dear participants. We must do more – together – to ensure that every child has access to their human rights. The first step is to listen to what they have to say.

As helplines in the world, you listen to children – every day. I thank you for that.

And I wish you the best of luck, with this meeting and with your important work.

I hereby declare the 10th International Consultation of Child Helplines open.