During an event held last Friday at YMCA Dakota, organized by the Youth Parliament ( Parlamento Hubenil ) in honor of Children’s Rights, PPA representative Eduard Pieters highlighted the formative role of the Youth Parliament. Members of Parliament from MEP and PPA were present, along with Minister Gerlien Croes.
November 20: International Children’s Rights Day
Pieters noted that November 20 is officially recognized worldwide as the International Day of the Rights of the Child. These rights were ratified in 1989 and formally implemented in 1990. Through an international UNESCO treaty, ten fundamental principles were established to protect and promote the well-being of all children.
He emphasized two key rights:
• The right to equal treatment: Children must not be discriminated against based on race, color, language, or religion.
• The right to proper education: A right Pieters personally considers deeply important.
Encouraging more youth participation
Pieters expressed gratitude for the invitation from the Youth Parliament and the opportunity to interact with the young attendees. He stressed the importance of motivating more youth to participate in the Youth Parliament, where they can benefit from workshops and personal development programs that help build leadership and confidence.
He also noted that many parents hesitate to involve their children because they mistakenly believe that the Youth Parliament is politically driven.
“The Youth Parliament is not a political platform; it is meant for nation-building and for shaping the future leaders who will guide Aruba forward. Its role is sacred and fundamental,” Pieters stated.
PPA reaffirms its full support
The PPA faction reconfirmed its full support for the Youth Parliament, emphasizing that the institution plays an essential role in preparing the next generation for responsible leadership.
On November 20, the Youth Parliament will host additional activities, and PPA has pledged to continue supporting the youth in all their efforts to raise awareness about children’s rights.
Message to youth and parents
The PPA faction shared a clear message: youth and parents must persevere, stay strong, and never allow anyone to diminish or underestimate them.
Pieters added that adults have the responsibility to learn, understand, and apply the ten fundamental principles of children’s rights in daily life.
As adults, he said, we must empower young people, help them overcome fear, and encourage them to believe in their own abilities and potential.
