UNICEF Raises Concern Over Involvement of Children in Political Gatherings

The United Nations agency responsible for providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide UNICEF has raised concern over the involvement of children in political gatherings in the Gambia.

A statement from the UN agency says it is concerned over the involvement of children in large political gatherings in The Gambia, including during the nomination of candidates for the December 4^th presidential election.

In several of these events, media coverage and independent photographs have shown children in the midst of large crowds it says.

Although The Convention on the Rights of the Child, which has been ratified by The Gambia, provides children with the right to freedom of assembly UNICEF says that right must be exercised in a manner consistent with the children’s right to protection from manipulation, abuse and exploitation.

According to UNICEF, “Children attending rallies and roadshows could be vulnerable to stampedes, violence, road accidents and unhealthy language and behaviour. If urgent measures are not taken, more children could be exposed to harm during the official campaign period which begins on 9th November 2021.”

The UN agency further calls for the protection of children and ensuring that they are protected from all activities that could be detrimental to their welfare and safety.

Political parties, especially party leaders and independent candidates, have a responsibility to ensure that no child is exposed to harm or danger during their political activities, and should discourage the involvement of children in all political rallies and other large gatherings” The UNICEF statement said.