By Salvatore Cernuzio
VATICAN CITY, Feb. 3, 2025 – The Vatican Museums hosted the opening evening of the International Summit on Children’s Rights, an event that brought together global leaders, academics, and humanitarian figures to address the pressing issues faced by children worldwide. Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, delivered a powerful address on February 2, emphasizing the urgent need to listen to children’s voices and respond with concrete action.
From political and economic figures to cultural leaders and ordinary citizens, Cardinal Parolin underscored the moral obligation to hear the cries of children suffering from hunger, war, violence, inequality, and environmental devastation. His message set the tone for the summit titled “Love Them and Protect Them,” which officially commenced on Monday, February 3, with Pope Francis in attendance.
A Global Call to Love and Protect
The summit, promoted by the Pontifical Committee for the World Day of Children—an initiative announced by Pope Francis on November 20, 2024—features contributions from Nobel laureates, academics, writers, economists, religious and political leaders, and representatives of international organizations.
Cardinal Parolin described the event as a platform for “reflection” and “reciprocal listening,” structured in two sessions that include an opening address, closing remarks by Pope Francis, and seven panel discussions featuring fifty speakers.
Highlighting the theme, “Love Them and Protect Them,” the Cardinal stressed that these are not merely recommendations but a “categorical imperative that should command universal agreement and inspire concrete and collective action.”
Children: The Youngest Victims of War and Migration
Cardinal Parolin lamented the tragic reality that, despite advancements in modern communication, the world continues to fail in providing love and protection to its most vulnerable—children. He pointed to the devastating impact of wars that claim thousands of young lives and the ongoing humanitarian crises at sea, where countless migrant children face peril and death.
Interfaith Solidarity and the Church’s Mission
Referencing the Gospel, Cardinal Parolin reminded attendees that Jesus urged his disciples to preserve the purity of a child’s gaze and to avoid causing them harm. He reaffirmed the Church’s unwavering commitment to defending children’s rights while acknowledging its own past shortcomings.
He also emphasized the importance of listening to experts in social, psychological, and pedagogical sciences, as well as collaborating with international organizations and field workers. Notably, he welcomed interfaith dialogue and expressed gratitude for the presence of Jewish and Muslim leaders, including Rabbi David Rosen and Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb of Al-Azhar.
A Vision for the Future: Every Child’s Right to Play in Peace
Looking ahead to the Second World Day of Children, scheduled for September 2026 following its inaugural celebration in May 2024, Cardinal Parolin urged global leaders to take meaningful action. He called on the world to heed children’s pleas against hunger, inequality, violence, war, and environmental destruction.
He further emphasized the necessity of providing access to resources such as education, nutrition, healthcare, family support, and leisure. “Every child has the right to play in peace and freedom,” he declared.
Moving Forward with Determination
While acknowledging the immense challenges ahead, Cardinal Parolin stressed the importance of initiating processes that can lead to lasting and positive change. He encouraged all participants to move forward with confidence and determination, united in their mission to ensure that every child is welcomed, loved, and protected.
Society of Jesus' social apostolate 