With the theme “Children and Families Speak out against Poverty,’’ International Day for the Eradication of Poverty observed on October 17, 2009, highlights the plight of children and families living in poverty and the need to fulfill children’s rights in keeping with the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The Adoption of the Convention has brought about considerable advances around the world in securing children’s rights to survival, health, and education. It has created a better protective environment to shield children from exploitation and abuse.

We live in an increasingly interdependent world and we have made great strides in tackling poverty. Behind the increasing interconnectedness promised by globalization are global decisions, policies, and practices.

Poverty knows no geographical barriers and is widespread all over the world. And while government and international agencies have provided billions of people with much-needed aid, the war on the world poverty has not been won. Too many children go to bed with empty stomachs and wake up to seemingly hopeless futures.

Mentally and physically malnourished, many children are unable to get a good education and will encounter serious problems. Investments in children and the realization of their rights are among the most effective ways to eradicate poverty.

There is much to be done to create a world fit for children. International Day for the Eradication of Poverty for 2009 presents an opportunity for children to speak out on actions which will strengthen both children and their families in tackling poverty and exclusion.