Bhubaneswar: Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi on Tuesday launched his “100 Million for 100 Million” global campaign against exploitation of children here and called for support of the youths to help ensure the safety of children.
Addressing media, Satyarthi said the campaign aims to mobilise 100 million youngsters and children for 100 million underprivileged children across the globe, to end child labour, child slavery and all forms of exploitation of children over the next five years.
“On one hand 100 million children are suffering and on the other hand 100 million people are ready to act positively. The young mass is looking for a better purpose in life and is hungry to prove themselves that they are full of energy and enthusiasm...We have to encourage our young people to become leaders and not just the followers, so that they can take the driver’s seat to bring changes in the world and achieve true globalisation,” he stated.
“In the world, about three billion people are below the age of 25 and two billion are below the age of 18...I am trying to address the burning issue with the help of at least 100 million out of them to become the change makers, leaders, pioneers and champions for the other 100 million left out ones,” Satyarthi pointed out.
The campaign would have both off line and online activities. In online, while social media can be used to express their concern and learn about child rights, the youngsters can form groups and organisations to fight for their fundamental rights. “We hope that the students of schools, colleges and universities can become change makers for those who have been the victims of illiteracy and slavery,” Satyarthi said.
This year, the campaign will cover every continent, and by 2019, will operate in over 60 countries worldwide. In India, the campaign will focus on child sexual abuse, which has been reportedly increasing over the years. “We cannot dream of a safe India without ensuring the safety of our daughters and sons. We want more youngsters to come forward to create a safe society,” he said.
In December last President Pranab Mukherjee had launched the campaign that strives to change the future of millions of children worldwide.