Ahead of the upcoming national elections, over 200 children have issued a six-point manifesto urging the Government, political parties, and policymakers to prioritise child rights and protection in their commitments, policies, and programmes.

The manifesto calls for quality education, healthcare, inclusion of children's voices, cyber safety, climate justice, and a safe environment for all children. It also demands stricter enforcement of laws to end child marriage, child labour, and violence against children.

The document was unveiled at a special event organised by ActionAid Bangladesh at the Bangladesh Shishu Academy, as part of Children's Rights Week 2025. The theme for this year was "Empowering Children, Ending Child Marriage – Ensuring Safe Childhoods in the Digital World."

A panel discussion moderated by Farah Kabir, Country Director of ActionAid Bangladesh, brought together senior officials from the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, academics, and child rights experts. Speakers emphasised that children's protection and development require collective responsibility from the State, civil society, and families.

Farah Kabir said, "Policies concerning children directly affect their lives. Listening to them and including their perspectives in decision-making is not only their right but also essential for effective policymaking. In the digital era, we must ensure both safety and opportunity for children. If we fail to protect them, the integrity of our development will be questioned."

Child representative Tamanna said, "We want compulsory education on sexual and reproductive health and rights in every school. To end child marriage and ensure cyber safety, laws must not only exist but also be enforced."

Shabnam Mustari, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, called for stronger collaboration to prevent online harassment and integrate digital literacy into the national curriculum. Dilara Begum, Director General (Additional Secretary), Bangladesh Shishu Academy, stressed promoting responsible parenting and empowering children to express their views at the policy level.

Natalie McCauley, Chief of Child Protection, UNICEF Bangladesh, said a permanent child-focused division under the Ministry could address systemic gaps. Mohammad Emdad-ul-Bari, Chairman of BTRC, and Md Elius Ziku, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, highlighted the need for cyber-safe platforms and parental awareness.

The event also featured a symbolic Children's Parliament, cultural performances, and participation from 80 child journalists nationwide.