The National Council of Women of Canada (NCWC) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to advancing and protecting the rights, safety, and well-being of every child in Canada, especially as we mark National Child Day. This important observance underscores Canada’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). As such, the NCWC continues to advocate for concrete action to fulfill these commitments—including renewed calls for the establishment of an independent Children's Commissioner. Such a Commissioner would provide accountability, oversight, and leadership in safeguarding children's rights, amplifying their voices, and ensuring their needs are addressed nationwide.
Despite Canada’s many strengths and resources, Canadian children’s well-being is not as high as it could be compared to other wealthy countries. According to UNICEF Canada’s latest Report Card, Canada ranks only 19th out of 36 high-income nations for child and youth well-being—far below countries like the Netherlands, Denmark, and France. Concerningly, life satisfaction among children has dropped from 83% in 2010 to just under 76% in 2022, and one in five children reports frequent bullying or loneliness at school. Canada is ranked 28th for social skills and 33rd for adolescent suicide rates, with progress stalling on key measures like child health, inclusion, and well-being despite increasing national wealth. (see links below)
As we approach the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the NCWC also is committed to highlighting the urgent need to protect children from violence, neglect, and exploitation. Safe, caring environments—free from physical, emotional, and online harm—are essential for healthy child development. Recognizing evolving risks, the NCWC has intensified advocacy for robust online safety measures, including greater protections against cyberbullying, online exploitation, and digital privacy infringements. These efforts build on our Council’s long history of championing Canada’s duty of care with precedent-setting initiatives, including calls for mandatory protection standards and stronger social safety nets that have led to legislative progress for children’s rights and welfare.
By fostering a generation rooted in understanding, empathy, and respect—and by prioritizing children’s health, safety, and access to equitable opportunities—the NCWC remains steadfast in promoting a future where every child is valued, listened to, and supported to reach their fullest potential. Together, through advocacy, partnership, and ongoing policy leadership—including our work for a Children's Commissioner and increased online protections—we hold Canada to the standards of the CRC and invest in a more just, inclusive society where all children can thrive.
Penny Rankin -NCWC President
For more information and to review some of our POLICIES and INITIATIVES go to: www.ncwcanada.ca
https://www.ncwcanada.ca/blog/c-12/child-poverty-and-benefits-161
https://www.ncwcanada.ca/blog/c-12/a-commissioner-for-canadas-children-152
NCWC ONLINE PROTECTION INITIATIVE:
UNICEF CANADA REPORTS