Imagine young minds passionately engaging with the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process, learning how it works, and, most importantly, sharing their invaluable insights and comments for a brighter future for the children of Bangladesh. What an inspiring sight to behold!
All these happened on 28 February 2024, at the CIRDAP, where children took on the roles of state representatives, government bodies, and more to discuss and advocate for improving child rights in our country. The event titled- “Children Mock Universal Periodic Review (UPR)” was organized by Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), Secretariat of the Child Rights Advocacy Coalition in Bangladesh (CRAC, B). It was supported by the European Union, Plan International Bangladesh and Educo Bangladesh.

In their way, these children presented 20 vital child-focused recommendations from the 4th cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), which is remarkable. Md. Arifur Rahman, Director (Human Rights), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Paola Castro Neiderstam (Second Secretary, Program Specialist – Human Rights, Democracy and Gender Equality) of Embassy of Sweden, Shabnaaz Zahereen from UNICEF, representatives of different national and international child rights organizations and coalition members were there to observe the event. Faruq Faisel, Executive Director, ASK, moderated the event. Tamanna Hoq Riti, Coordinator (ASK), gave a brief presentation on the UPR mechanism and the preparatory sessions of the children’s Mock UPR.
Kudos to these future leaders for their thoughtful recommendations and dedication to building a brighter future! Let’s continue fostering spaces where every child’s voice is heard and respected.

Download Mock UPR Report