The European Union and UNICEF have launched a campaign to highlight the situation of millions of children around the world affected by disasters, catastrophes and conflicts – by giving some of these boys and girls the opportunity to tell their stories.
UNICEF Ambassador Ewan McGregor is supporting the “Voices of Children in Emergencies” campaign, appearing in a new video together with a child refugee from Syria.
“There are millions of children throughout the world who are stuck in dire situations that they didn’t create and can’t control,” said UNICEF Ambassador Ewan McGregor. “Today, I am honoured to lend my voice to these children. All children, everywhere, have the right to a voice on matters that affect them.”
Children are always the most vulnerable in humanitarian crises, and most at risk of disease, malnutrition, exploitation and abuse. Many have their education interrupted and experience severe psychological distress. These effects have long-term consequences in their lives and in their communities.
“Together, the European Union and UNICEF are helping millions of children affected by emergencies every year. We ensure that urgently needed aid reaches them. We deliver hope. But we can only do so if the fears and concerns, brave struggles, dreams and aspirations of these girls and boys are heard. Let’s all help them raise their voices!” said Kristalina Georgieva, EU Commissioner for International Cooperation, Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Response.
Other UNICEF Ambassadors and supporters participating in the initiative will be football player Robert Lewandowski (Poland), basketball players Pau Gasol (Spain) and Bostjan Nachbar (Slovenia), as well as actress Evanna Lynch (Ireland), actor Imanol Arias (Spain), journalist Pavlos Tsimas (Greece), journalist and writer Roberto Cotroneo (Italy) and TV presenter and actress Gaia Amaral (Italy).
“Some of the stories of children in emergencies make headlines, but most are never heard,” said UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake. “The ‘Voices of Children in Emergencies’ campaign lets children living through natural disasters, conflict and political upheaval tell their own stories – as only they can.”
Advertising agency JWT Spain has generously lent their time in the development of the campaign.
Music artist Irma has lent her voice to the campaign through her track ‘Hear Me Out’.
