UNICEF Assam, in collaboration with the Directorate of Sports and Youth Welfare and the Brahmaputra Volleyball League (BVL), marked World Children’s Day with an exhibition volleyball match symbolising the empowerment of youth, particularly girls, to lead climate action. This initiative underscores the crucial link between child rights, gender equality, and resilience to climate change.
The event coincided with the launch of UNICEF’s global State of the World’s Children 2024 report, titled The Future of Childhood in a Changing World, which examines the interplay of global megatrends such as climate change, demographic shifts, and emerging technologies on the lives of children.
Principal Secretary of the Department of Women and Child Development, Mukesh Chandra Sahu, stressed the profound effects of climate change on child rights, particularly in Assam, which experiences frequent climate-induced disasters. “Climate challenges perpetuate structural inequalities, often leading to child marriages and other rights infringements. Like volleyball, addressing these issues requires teamwork, focusing on the rights of every child,” he stated.
Kauser Jamil Hilaly, Secretary of the Sports and Youth Welfare Department, highlighted the role of sports in uniting communities and fostering action. “We are playing for the ultimate championship – a Green World. This trophy symbolises a future where children’s rights to quality lives are protected, with teamwork from governments, organisations, and citizens,” he said.
UNICEF Assam has partnered with the Brahmaputra Volleyball League to empower girls through sports, addressing societal norms such as child marriage and expanding educational opportunities. Abhijit Bhattacharya, founder of BVL and a former volleyball player, emphasised the importance of leveraging the platform to inspire leadership and resilience among young women. “Tackling climate change is the ultimate team effort. With our youth already engaging in impactful climate action, we must scale this energy for broader impact,” he said.
Dr Madhulika Jonathan, Chief of Field Office for UNICEF Assam and Northeast states, reiterated UNICEF’s commitment to prioritising children’s rights in climate action. She noted the organisation’s focus on equipping young people, especially girls, with tools for resilience. “UNICEF aims to ensure access to education, healthcare, and climate-resilient services, while challenging harmful norms exacerbated by climate change,” she said.
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UNICEF Youth Advocate Nahid Afrin addressed the intersection of climate change and social issues, urging policymakers to integrate gender equity into climate frameworks. “The actions we take today shape the future of our children. We must ensure no girl is left behind in this fight,” she said.
Projections indicate significant climate challenges for Assam by 2050, including a rise in mean temperatures by 1.7–2.0°C, a 25% increase in flooding incidents, and an upsurge in extreme weather events. These changes disproportionately impact vulnerable populations, particularly children.
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